Dear Friends and Supporters,

As December comes to a close, we reflect on the ways grief can feel more intense during the holiday season. For many families, the absence of loved ones during this time can be especially difficult. At Jessica’s House, we recognize the weight of this season and continue to offer our support to families facing these challenges.

This month, we’ve focused on providing resources and a safe space for those grieving, helping families honor their loved ones and find meaningful ways to create new traditions or memories.

As we move into the new year, we remain committed to walking alongside you, offering support and a compassionate community for all those experiencing loss.

We wish you peace, strength, and healing as you step into 2025.

Warmly,

Erin Nelson

Executive Director, Jessica's House

As we step into 2025, here are some gentle ways to ease into the new year while honoring your grief:

• Allow Yourself to Feel: Acknowledge the mix of emotions—sadness, hope, or even relief—and give yourself space to experience them without judgment.

• Carry Their Memory Forward: Find meaningful ways to honor your loved one, such as starting a new tradition or reflecting on cherished moments.

• Take Small Steps: Focus on manageable goals as you ease into new routines, allowing yourself to move forward at your own pace.

• Stay Connected: Lean on supportive spaces, like Jessica’s House, where you can find comfort and understanding among others who share similar experiences.

• Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and remember that healing is not about forgetting—it’s about carrying love into the future.

• Seek Small Moments of Hope: Find solace in small joys, like a favorite memory, a quiet walk, or time spent with someone who understands.

We are here to walk alongside you as you enter the new year with care, compassion, and love.

Check out the latest episodes of When Grief Comes Home!

• Episode 6 - Opening to Grief
• Episode 7 - Holiday Grief
• Episode 8 - Decision Making After a Death

New episodes air every other Tuesday! Please take a moment to write a review and rate our new podcast!

Listen and Subscribe

Materials: Paper bags, battery-operated tea lights, markers, colored pencils, and crayons

Directions: On your paper bag, write words representing your strong qualities and draw pictures representing those strengths. Decorate your bag with quotes, phrases, and/or words of encouragement.

When finished, turn on and place a tea light in your bag.

Ice Skating for Families

Thank you to our generous donors for making this ice-skating event possible for our Jessica’s House families. Your kindness brings joy and connection to our community, and we are deeply grateful for your support!

Youth Ambassador Hot Cocoa Social

Our Youth Ambassadors joined us for a cozy Hot Cocoa Social, enjoying games, treats, and plenty of warm cocoa! It was a wonderful way to connect and share moments of joy together.

The Heart Circle Holiday Social was filled with warmth and love. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this evening truly unforgettable. Your presence made the event special, and we are so grateful for the support and connection!

Follow us on social media!