11/12/2024

The joy of the holiday season can be marked by sadness for those with loved ones who have passed away. Remembering our loved ones and including them in our observances keeps them alive in our hearts and celebrates their legacy that continues to live on.

11/1/2024 In recognition of Children's Grief Awareness Month this November, the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program is coming together with other members of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief to "flip the script" on grief. Throughout the month, we are collectively committed to providing essential tools and resources to foster a more grief-informed society. This initiative seeks to address the common challenges people face when supporting those who are grieving, aiming to replace potentially hurtful statements or silence with action-based responses. Additionally, the Healing Patch invites the community to get involved by wearing blue on Children’s Grief Awareness Day, Nov. 21. 

10/16/2024 Family Hospice, Part of UPMC, is pleased to offer a live webinar featuring world-renowned author and grief educator, Dr. Alan Wolfelt. Offered in partnership with Stevens Family Funeral Home, this webinar is titled “Tending to Your Broken Heart when Someone Dies: Hope for Your Healing” and will be held on Mon., Nov. 18 from 3-6 p.m. at UPMC Altoona. A virtual option is also available.

9/18/2024 Tickets are sold out for the 2024 Decades Club to benefit the Healing Patch Children's Grief Program. This evening of prizes and music will be held at the Blair County Convention Center, Altoona on Saturday, September 28.

7/31/2024 Family Hospice, Part of UPMC, is offering free grief support options this fall throughout West Central Pennsylvania.

6/12/2024 State College residents Jim and Mary Ellen Kelly held the winning number – 316 – for Home Nursing Agency Foundation’s Mercedes Moment fundraiser held on May 30. 

5/24/2024 Tickets for the 2024 Mercedes Moment drawing on May 30, 2024 have SOLD OUT! Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets for a chance to win Mercedes BLA 250 or $30,000.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list for next year, please complete this form. 

4/19/2024 April is Volunteer Recognition Month! We are grateful for the commitment of those who volunteer with the Healing Patch Children's Grief Program and Family Hospice.

3/18/2024 The Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program is now recruiting volunteers to serve at family group sessions at the Healing Patch centers in Altoona and Ebensburg. Volunteers serve as facilitators for groups of grieving children aged 3-18, young adults aged 18-25 or adults who bring children or adolescents to the program.