Newsletter

November 2025

Jessica's House Monthly

A message from our Executive Director

Dear Friends and Supporters,

November is Children’s Grief Awareness Month, a time to recognize the courage and resilience of children and teens who are living with loss.

This month, we’re reflecting on how grief shows up for young people and sharing simple ways that caregivers, teachers, friends, and communities can support them with compassion and understanding.

We’re especially proud to feature Audrey Smallwood in our latest podcast episode. Audrey began her time at Jessica’s House after experiencing the loss of her father. She went on to become a youth ambassador, volunteer, a staff intern, and is now pursuing a degree in social work. Her story is a powerful example of resilience and the meaningful way young people can grow and give back after loss. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform to hear Audrey’s story and learn more about supporting children through grief.

We hope this month encourages conversations, awareness, and action – small ways that can make a big difference in the lives of grieving children.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Erin Nelson

Executive Director

NACG Members Unite for Children's Grief Awareness Month this November with #FlipTheScript

This November, in recognition of Children’s Grief Awareness Month, Jessica’s House is joining with members of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG) to launch the annual Flip the Script Campaign. Far too often, grief in young people can go unseen or misunderstood. Well-intentioned adults may avoid conversations about death, minimize a child’s feelings, or rely on phrases such as “you’ll be okay” or “time heals all wounds.” These responses can unintentionally leave children feeling isolated in their grief.

1 in 11 children in the U.S.—or about 6.5 million—will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18. This staggering reality highlights the importance of raising awareness and ensuring children who are grieving are not left to grieve their loss alone.

Throughout the month of November, Jessica’s House shared resources, stories, and information designed to help individuals, families, schools, faith communities, and professionals better understand the grieving process and respond with empathy. For ways to get involved in the Flip the Script Campaign, visit https://nacg.org/flipthescript/ and follow #FlipTheScript on Facebook and Instagram.

When Grief Comes Home Podcast

Check out our latest episodes of When Grief Comes Home!

Don’t miss our special episode for Children’s Grief Awareness featuring Audrey Smallwood!

· Episode 5 – Growth After Loss

· Episode 6 – Growing Through Loss (Guest: Audrey Smallwood)

New episodes air every other Tuesday!

Please take a moment to write a written review and rate our podcast. 

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

Conversations on Grief:

Our Latest Podcast Appearances

Erin and Colleen recently shared their insights on grief and healing as guests on Grief Mentor and Growth From Grief. If you missed these conversations, you can catch up at the links below.

Activity: Heart of Love and Connection

This month, our groups paired an art activity with the book Always and Forever by Alan Durant, to honor the lasting connections with loved ones who have died. Each child drew two hearts—one for themselves, one for their person, writing their traits and hobbies inside and filling the overlap with what they shared. They painted the hearts with watercolor to reflect each person, blending them in the middle to show their ongoing connection, and outlined them in a color representing the love and the bond that remains.

Program Highlights

Families We Supported Last Month

At Jessica's House, we honored 179 families—392 children, teens, and young adults and 278 adults—each carrying their own story of love and loss. Every group and conversation reminds us of the importance of having a safe place where hearts can be seen, heard, and supported.

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

Outreach and Community Highlights

Pitman High Students Visit Jessica's House

We were delighted to welcome Pitman High’s Early Child Development class to Jessica’s House! During their visit, students learned about the ways we support children and families with care and compassion. It’s always inspiring to connect with young people who are interested in helping others and making a difference in their community.

Healing with Modesto Children's Museum

We were proud to partner with the Modesto Children’s Museum as part of the Association of Children’s Museums’ Healing with Play initiative, supporting children and families as they process grief through play, creativity,

and community.



Jessica’s House provided coloring activities, resources, and a special book reading of Ida, Always and Circles All Around Us for children and families.

Power of the Purse

We were so excited to attend Power of the Purse hosted by United Way of Stanislaus County. This wonderful fundraiser supports UWSC initiatives and programs while empowering the women in our community. The keynote speaker, Dr. Gopika Gangupantula, shared her heartfelt story and offered meaningful inspiration, making the afternoon truly memorable. 

Kettlebell Kick Off

We were so grateful to join the Salvation Army in Turlock for the Kettlebell Kick-Off, officially starting Red Kettle Season. Our executive director, Erin, was honored to speak, highlighting the importance of togetherness. It was a meaningful start to the season, showing how even small actions can have a significant impact when we get closer.

Giving Highlights

A Heartfelt Gift

We are so grateful to CVAR for their generous $1,000 donation to Jessica’s House. Their support helps us continue providing programs and resources for children and families grieving the loss of a loved one.