LEWISTON – A Program for Grieving Children and Teens will hold a 10-week program from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 13 through March 17, at St. Philip’s Church, Route 4, Auburn. The sessions will provide support for children and teenagers, ages 3 to 18, who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, relative or friend.

Founded in 1998, A Program for Grieving Children and Teens is sponsored by St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice and Franklin Community Health Network and serves families from Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford and northern Cumberland counties at no charge.

Children meet weekly in groups for age-appropriate activities, games, art and other forms of self-expression. Adults meet at the same time to support one another and discuss ways to best meet their families’ needs. Groups are led by volunteers who have completed a 27-hour training.

One family said, “It is wonderful that this program exists. So many people have no one to turn to in grieving. Children especially need the support. It was a relief to my son to be able to come. It has helped his frame of mind and given him coping tools.”

To enroll in the program, a parent or adult support person should accompany a child or teen. Grandparents are also encouraged to participate. Preregistration is required so families can meet with program volunteers before the session begins.

In addition to sessions during the year, the program offers educational resources to the community and one-day workshops.

For more information about the program or to preregister, contact Joan Spitzform, bereavement assistant, at Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice at 777-7740 or 1-800-482-7412, ext. 1460.