Newsletter

 

March 2026

 

A message from our Executive Director


Dear Friends and Supporters, 


March has always felt like a quiet turning point. At Jessica's House, this is the month when we notice the daylight shifting on group nights, our garden starting to come alive, and our group participants showing up for each other in ways that whisper, "You are not alone in this." For those walking through grief, that reminder gives hope for their next moment.


This month, 681 individuals walked through our Jessica's House doors, and into our ongoing school groups. Behind every number is a story of deep love and real loss for youth who have experienced the death of a parent or sibling. What moves me most is not just the volume of people we serve, but the courage it takes for a grieving family to reach out and say, I need someone to walk alongside me. We are honored to be that place.


We also welcomed a beautiful new group of volunteers who are preparing to sit with families in their hardest moments and remind them they don't have to carry their grief alone. Their willingness to show up is one of the most generous gifts our community offers.


And speaking of generous! Our Heart Circle Garden Party was a wonderful reminder that this work is sustained by a circle of generous donors who believe in it. Your presence, your giving, and your ongoing support make everything we do possible.



Spring is here. New growth is coming. And because of you, no one needs to face grief alone.


With warmth and gratitude, 

Erin Nelson

Executive Director

Planning with Intention, Serving with Heart

This season, our board and leadership team gathered for a meaningful time of reflection and forward thinking, engaging in strategic and succession planning facilitated by Andy McNeil, CEO of The Compassionate Friends USA. This work reflects our deep commitment to the children, teens, and families we serve. Planning well means we keep showing up in ways that reflect our values and express our virtues of faith, authenticity, and service.

A Warm Welcome to Nicole

We’re excited to welcome Nicole Francis to our team as our new Grief Support Coordinator. Nicole brings compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families through their grief. We are grateful to have her as part of our community and look forward to the comfort, guidance, and care she will provide to those we serve. To learn more about Nicole visit our website at the link below.

When Grief Comes Home Podcast



Check out our latest episodes of When Grief Comes Home!


· Episode 13 – How Saying Goodbye Affects Grief

· Episode 14 – God Meets Us in Our Suffering

· Episode 15 – Expressing Your Grief Through the Arts




New episodes air every other Tuesday!

We’d love your support! Take a moment to write a written review and

rate our podcast.

Listen to When Grief Comes Home on your favorite podcast platform.

Apple

Spotify

Amazon Music

iHeart Radio






Grab your copy of When Grief Comes Home and explore even more reflections on grief

and healing.


Amazon

Target

Barnes & Noble

Baker Book House

ChristianBook.com

"A tender and practical guide that helps grieving parents both care for themselves and support their children through loss."

— Amy Pagliarella, Book Review Editor | The Presbyterian Outlook | March 2026

Art Activity:

Memory Bottle

Create a calming memory bottle to honor your person.

Add a few beads or trinkets that remind you of them, along with glitter and water. When big feelings come up, shake the bottle and take slow breaths as everything settles, reminding yourself that emotions move through and won’t last forever.


Watch this video to make your own at home!

Program Highlights

Families We Supported Last Month

Last month, Jessica's House supported 190 families— 453 children, teens, and young adults and  218 adults. Behind every number is a story of deep love and real loss.


If you or someone you know could use support, reach out to us at 209-250-5395 or info@jessicashouse.org

Growing Our Circle of Care

We welcomed a new group of compassionate volunteers to Jessica’s House during our volunteer training. These individuals dedicated their time to learning about grief, building supportive skills and preparing to walk alongside children, teens and families. We are so grateful for

their willingness to serve and for the care and heart they bring to

our community.

 

If you’re interested in volunteering, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply and learn more at jessicashouse.org/volunteer or call 209-250-5395

Upcoming Volunteer Training Dates:

Day 1 Training

August 10, 2026

 

Weekend Training

September 19-20, 2026

First Day of Spring with the

Turlock Garden Club

As we celebrate the first day of spring, we’re thankful for the Turlock Garden Club whose care and dedication made the garden beautiful just in time for our event. Their nurturing hands remind us that even after loss, new growth and hope continue to blossom. Thank you, ladies, for creating a peaceful space for healing. 

Outreach and Community Highlights

Tour of the Heart


We welcomed Denair Unified clinicians to Jessica’s House. It was such a pleasure to give them a glimpse into the care and programs we provide for grieving children and families. 


Community Baby Shower


We were grateful to attend the Community Baby Shower in Merced and connect with families and community partners in the area.

Event Highlights




An Evening in

Full Bloom

Our Garden Party was a wonderful opportunity to gather and express our appreciation. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and great company, the afternoon provided time to connect, reflect, and enjoy a shared sense of purpose. We are sincerely thankful to everyone who attended and helped make the event so enjoyable. Your presence and ongoing support mean a great deal to us.

Giving Highlights

A Buzzing Day of Generosity

The Kayla Bernardi BEE Positive Foundation brought smiles and so much generosity to Jessica’s House! We had a buzzing time hiding little bees in special places for Cathie to find! 

 
 
 

Contact Us

209-250-5395

info@jessicashouse.org

 
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