Bereavement Services
Grief is a natural response to loss. It is the painful process of life change when someone you love is dying or has died. As you work to find new meaning in a world without the physical presence of your loved one, our bereavement services offer assistance and support. Our programs provide a safe space for all individuals, regardless of age, race, creed, disability, family or marital status, gender identity, gender expression, receipt of public assistance, record of offences, sex, or sexual orientation.
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The loss of an adult-aged child is a profound and deeply personal experience. Grieving can feel isolating, but connecting with others who have faced a similar loss can bring comfort, understanding, and hope. This group offers a safe and supportive environment to share your story, listen to others, and find strength together on the path toward healing.
- Date/Time: Thursdays
- Location: Hospice Orillia
- Cost: Free
- Registration: Registration is required.
For more information & to register, please contact:
Louise Brazier, Bereavement Services Coordinator louise@hospiceorillia.ca | 705-325-0505 x 209
Though we think of grief as something that happens after a death, it often begins long before death arrives. Once death is on the horizon, even just as a possibility, it is natural that we begin to grieve. Anticipatory grief support offers assistance to individuals who are facing the impending loss of a loved one.
Are you adjusting to life without your loved one? Grief can be a winding journey, but sharing that journey with others who understand can bring connection and comfort. Our Coffee & Care Support Group offers a welcoming space to meet new people, share experiences, and support one another through conversation and companionship.
This weekly group provides an opportunity for those who have lost a loved one to gather in a safe and understanding setting. Everyone is welcome—whatever your experience, background, or identity.
- Date: Mondays
- Location: Orillia Common Roof
- Cost: Free
- Registration: Registration is required.
For more information & to register, please contact:
Louise Brazier, Bereavement Services Coordinator louise@hospiceorillia.ca | 705-325-0505 x 209
Hospice Orillia has a selection of books and videos pertaining to bereavement, including books for children of all ages. These items can be borrowed on a one-month basis and are available to everyone in our community.
For more information, contact us at louise@hospiceorillia.ca or call 705-325-0505 ext.209
This six-week course allows the participants a safe and compassionate space to grow through their grief. This peer support group is led by professionally trained Hospice Volunteers, under the watchful eye of the Horse Trainer. The therapy happens as the horses work their magic and allow the participants to become empowered as they groom, walk, care and sometimes work up to riding to them. The program allows for growth in the following areas:
- Adaptability
- Confidence and Self-esteem
- Developing and Maintaining Relationships
- Emotional Awareness
- Empathy Towards Others
- Independence
- Trust in Others
- Trust in Self
- Social Skills
The Equine Therapy Group is limited in space and is provided to clients on an invitation bases upon completion of their intake meeting with our Bereavement Services Coordinator.
Are you adjusting to life without your loved one? Sometimes, gentle movement and supportive company can help lighten the weight of grief. Join others who are walking a similar path—literally and emotionally—in a welcoming space that encourages conversation, reflection, and mutual support.
Our Grief Support Walking Group meets weekly for a peaceful stroll, offering the chance to connect with others while enjoying the soothing rhythm of walking together.
- Date: Wednesdays
- Location: Orillia Recreation Centre (moves to Tudhope in Spring)
- Cost: Free
- Registration: Registration is required.
For more information & to register, please contact:
Louise Brazier, Bereavement Services Coordinator louise@hospiceorillia.ca | 705-325-0505 x 209
Each year, Hospice Orillia hosts three memorial events; Garden of Remembrance, Candles of Remembrance and Hike for Hospice. Each of the events is unique in its own way providing community members the opportunity to come together to remember those no longer with us.
The Garden of Remembrance takes place in June of each year; whereas Candles of Remembrance takes place in December and the Hike for Hospice in May. While we have seen a shift in how these events are presented over the years, one steadfast thing is our community commitment to surrounding each other with love and comfort during this difficult time.
These custom sessions involve up to 4 meetings with a trained Hospice Orillia volunteer to explore grief on a personal as well as universal level. Volunteers are also available for community and home visits.
For more information, please contact Louise Brazier, Bereavement Services Coordinator louise@hospiceorillia.ca or by phone at 705-325-0505 x 209.
Have you experienced an overdose related loss of a loved one? Are you are looking for a safe, supportive environment to share with others on a similar journey? We now offer sessions for those going through grieving related to overdose. For more information, please contact Louise Brazier, Bereavement Services Coordinator louise@hospiceorillia.ca or by phone at 705-325-0505 x 209.
