"When you experience the death of a loved one, you need someone to turn to that really understands," said Melissa Lauzon, the manager of a new non-profit charitable organization aimed at supporting bereaved families.
Julien's House will open its doors Wednesday evening. However, because of the pandemic, it will do so virtually.
In addition to offering families who have lost a loved one the opportunity to connect with others who are grieving, Julien's House will provide various services.
"We offer a welcome place to support, educate, and empower people through their bereavement experience by respecting and responding to each bereaved person's unique needs," said Julien's House Chair Bill Marra.
It is the brainchild of bereavement specialists Colleen Campo and Christine MacMillan. The two professionals have worked with the Canadian Mental Health Association and private counselling for almost 20 years.
They identified the need for a special centre after visiting the Coping Centre in Cambridge, a bereavement home.
They were approached by Germain and Christine Gaudet, volunteers in the bereavement program whose son, Julien, had died from a traumatic brain injury he suffered in an automobile crash. He was 18 when he died.
The couple had also volunteered at the Coping Centre and offered their property. Julien's House was envisioned as a house of support for grieving families, and the charity's board is working with the Gaudets to use the space for programming.
"We know this is exactly what our community needs. We are happy to see it get off the ground. It's going to help many who are struggling with loss," said Campo.
Wednesday's Zoom event starts at 6 p.m. The public can register by emailing care@julienshouse.ca, or by calling 519-974-2273.
