Youth Support


Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Drug Poisoning Supports in the Comox Valley

The Comox Valley Hospice Society, in partnership with Comox Valley Foundry, has received a grant from the Community Action Initiative for a three-year project offering grief, loss, and bereavement services to youth who are impacted by the toxic drug crisis. The project aims to support youth emotional health and wellness as it relates to these unique losses.

Below are some Frequently Asked Questions. (Click on the question and the answer will appear below.)

  • Currently we are offering a limited number of 1:1 counselling sessions and play-based options for younger children, as well as outreach, in-services and consultations to schools and community agencies. Communities impacted will shape the direction of the program as it unfolds, with the aim to address gaps in services and/or augment current programming building capacity. Counselling sessions may occur in the office, at the school, or in the community. 

  • Youth up to the age of 30 years old who have been or are at risk of being impacted by a loss of a loved one due to the toxic drug crisis, and who reside in the Comox Valley.

    • Youth 12-24 years, complete a referral through the Comox Valley Foundry, indicating on the referral form that it is related to grief and loss.

    • Youth 25-30 years, complete a referral through the Comox Valley Hospice Society Referral form.

    • Children up to 12 years: We will consider referrals for children under the age of 12 that fall under this project mandate on a case-by-case basis. If you are aware of a child who may need support, please contact Amber Hitchen at 778-585-1824 or amber@comoxhospice.com.

  • After reviewing the referral, either Patricia Curtiss or Amber Hitchen will reach out to you for further information, to pass along resources, and/or to advise if the youth may be suitable for 1:1 counselling or groups. Please note that Patricia and Amber each work 15 hours/week, so there may be a delay in response to your referral. 

    If you need more information or have further questions, please reach out to Amber Hitchen at amber@comoxhospice.com or 778-585-1824.