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Where Children Learn Loss Doesn't Have to Limit Their Dreams

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What is Valerie's House?

A Safe Space to Share, Grieve, & Grow

Valerie’s House is a loving, supportive community where grieving children and their families can come together to find hope and support. With locations in Lee, Collier, Charlotte and Escambia Counties, we offer a warm, home-like environment where children connect with others their age and begin to understand they are not alone in their grief.

Through guided group activities, peer support, and compassionate care, children and families find the tools they need to heal at their own pace.

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How We Help

Support That Meets
Families Where They Are

Grief looks different for every child, and there's no "right time" to begin. Whether it's been a few days or many years, children and caregivers can join Valerie's House when they're ready. At Valerie's House, children learn that loss doesn't have to limit their dreams.

They form bonds, express their feelings safely, and begin to rebuild with resilience.

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Get Support

Find peer support groups for children, teens, and their families at no cost

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Resources

Provide knowledge and grief care to communities, from resource links to grief toolkits

Resources

Get Involved

Offer volunteer opportunities, host community events, and provide ways to get involved through giving

Ways to Give

Our Story

Inspired by Love. Built on Legacy.

Valerie's House is named after Valerie Melvin, a mother of two and a nurse, who lost her life in a car accident in 1987. In the years following her death, her daughter Angela experienced firsthand the lack of support for grieving children. That experience became the foundation for a powerful vision: a place where no child would ever grieve alone.

Angela founded Valerie's House in honor of her mother and for every family who needs a compassionate place to heal. Read Angela's story and the inspiration behind Valerie's House.
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Why Our Work Matters

Grief Affects More Children
Than You May Know

1 IN 6 CHILDREN will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the age of 25. The emotional toll can last a lifetime unless they receive the support they need.

At Valerie's House, we are the first organization in Southwest Florida solely focused on childhood bereavement. We exist to fill a vital gap in our communities and give children a place to belong, be heard, and begin to heal.

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Together, we can make sure no child grieves alone

You can be a part of their grief support journey. Whether you're a family in need of support or someone with a heart to help through your time, donations, or advocacy, Valerie's House welcomes you.

Contact us to learn more about how you can get support or make a difference today.

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