Abigail Ritchie, at left, and her older sister, Kaitlyn, enjoy a day on the water fishing with fellow members of the Bridges program, which helps young children who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
July 12, 2007 6:00 AM
PORTSMOUTH — The Northeast Charterboat Captain's Association recently hosted a day of fishing and sightseeing for Seacoast Hospice's "Bridges" program graduates.
The third annual event involved six boats which departed from York Harbor, Maine, and Newburyport, Mass., and together carried more than 35 individuals. Among those invited were children, parents and facilitators who had recently completed the 10-week Bridges program.
Larry Kindberg, a member of NECCA, originated this program three years ago and with fellow members provided everything for the half-day cruise — bait, fishing equipment, fuel, food and the boats.
"With all the pain and anguish these kids have gone through, it's great to see their faces light up when they reel a fish aboard. They will always remember the day they went fishing" said Kindberg.
The day ended with a barbecue provided by AccuTech Marine Propeller Inc. of North Hampton.
Seacoast Hospice started the Bridges program in 1991 to better address the particular challenges that children and teens face after losing someone close to them. Hospice volunteers specially trained in children's bereavement facilitate the 10-week long support programs. The volunteers place the children in age-appropriate groups and offer various activities to help them in their grieving process. Separate groups for adults who accompany Bridges participants are offered at the same time and location to provide adults time to process their own grief as well as learn about parenting a grieving child.
"Bridges creates a safe place where kids can explore their grief, share their feelings, and mutually support one another in their healing process," said Jane Bruno, children and youth bereavement coordinator.
Supported by generous donations from individuals and by community grants, Bridges is offered twice a year in the spring and fall and is free of charge for the participants. Registrations are now being accepted for the next session, which begins Sept. 25. For more information about the program or to register for the next session, please contact Jane Bruno at 1-800-416-9207 or log onto to www.seacoasthospice.org.
