Camp Erin is the largest national bereavement program for youth grieving the death of a significant person in their lives.
Children and teens ages 6-17 attend a transformational weekend camp that combines traditional, fun camp activities with grief education and emotional support, free of charge for all families. Led by grief professionals and trained volunteers, Camp Erin provides a unique opportunity for youth to increase levels of hope, enhance self-esteem, and especially to learn that they are not alone.
Camp Erin is offered in every Major League Baseball city as well as additional locations across the U.S. and Canada. The Moyer Foundation partners with hospices and bereavement organizations to bring hope and healing to thousands of grieving children and teens each year.
HBO's Emmy Award winning documentary featuring Camp Erin, One Last Hug illuminates the impact of grief on children. Its inspiring and emotional journey is intimate, cathartic, and a testament to the healing power of friendship and support.
The full-length documentary is available through HBO and for purchase on Amazon.
Every person grieves differently, as does every child.
Childhood grief is more common than most realize, and knowing how to talk to and guide a child who has experienced the death of someone close to them can be challenging. It is normal for adults to want to protect children from difficult experiences and information. Unaddressed grief, though, can cause youth to feel isolated and alone, both in their family and from other children. Children who are grieving are at greater risk than their peers for depression, suicide, poverty and substance abuse.
Grief is a natural and normal response to death and a lifelong process. It is made up of many different emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Through understanding, support, and opportunities to freely express thoughts and feelings, children and teens can develop healthy coping skills that enhance their lives. A child’s hope can be restored and they once again can imagine a life full of possibilities.
The Moyer Foundation strives to increase awareness and provide resources and support for grieving children.
1 in 20 children will experience the death of a parent or sibling before the age of 15.
Grieving children are at much greater risk than their peers for depression, suicide, poverty and substance abuse.
Of the 73,000 children that die in the U.S. each year, 83% have surviving siblings.
For camp dates, location, and contact information, click the dot on the map nearest you or your state name below. To register or for questions, please contact the camp partner listed. Camp Erin is offered free of charge to all families. We look forward to seeing you at Camp Erin!
If you are a hospice, hospital or bereavement center and are interested in bringing Camp Erin to your community, please contact us to learn more about a partnership with The Moyer Foundation.
The Moyer Foundation is proud to join organizations across the country in recognition of the importance of supporting grieving children and families in the U.S. and Canada.
Created by peers in the field and through the generous support of the New York Life Foundation, the Bereavement Camp Standards of Practice offers helpful considerations for a beneficial, safe experience in a variety of bereavement camp settings.
The National Bereavement Camp Conference (NBCC) provides an overview of bereavement camp structures and best practices nationwide through an interactive form of exchange, learning and collaboration. The next NBCC will be held in 2019.