Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio hosted its 25th annual Camp HOCO grief camp for children who have experienced the loss of a loved one at Moon Hall on Denison University’s campus in June. Camp activities included arts and crafts, making and flying kites, decorating memory stones, small group grief activities, music, and drumming. 

“This was the first time we were able to get back together in person in several years. It was very impactful for both the campers and the staff for this reason,” said Maria Johnson, manager of patient and family services at Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio. “We were able to welcome back some long-term volunteers that had missed serving, and it was great to get back into the swing of things.” 

In addition to 17 children who attended in person, Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio was able to offer Camp HOCO at Home boxes for children to participate from anywhere through the generous support of an anonymous donor.  

“Camp HOCO strives to offer support and guidance to the children who attend in person and receive the camp boxes through education on grief and loss and normalizing emotions and experiences,” Johnson said. “We offer small group time for the children to share their story and listen to others, so they know they are not alone while reviewing healthy coping skills and learning who to reach out to for help.” 

For more information about Camp HOCO or Camp HOCO at Home, please contact Maria Johnson at MJohnson@HospiceofCentralOhio.org or 740.788.1474.