A local non-profit just earned a big grant to help kids and teenagers deal with loss.
Dougy Center located in Southeast Portland is a space with trained specialists that helps kids through the grieving process.
Brennan Wood, Executive Director for Dougy Center, says "One in 13 kids will have a parent or a sibling die before they turn 18. And that doesn't account for this recent kind of surge in numbers from COVID-19."
Jarring statistics like that are one of the reasons the Dougy Center in Portland is working to create resources for kids and teenagers who are grieving.
Thanks to a 350,000 dollar grant from the Brave of Heart Fund, they're able to create toolkits with tip sheets, activities, videos, podcasts, and activity books.
All are focused solely on grieving someone who died from COVID-19.
Wood says having access to grief support after a loved one's death is crucial for anyone of any age. Their goal is to provide a safe space, especially for young people, to feel heard and supported.
Dougy Center hopes to have some of its toolkits and other materials available by the end of this winter.
