Erin’s House for Grieving Children: Supporting families through loss

In Indiana, 1 in 10 youth will experience the death of a loved one by age 18. Grief impacts every person differently, but children experience it in unique ways, often not having the social-emotional capacity to understand or express their grief, leading them to process their feelings through expressive behaviors or emotions. 

Furthermore, grief is not a linear experience. As children grow, their understanding of loss changes, and they may revisit their grief in different ways. Giving young people a dedicated space and the resources to work through those feelings is necessary to their development. 

Providing that space is at the core of Erin’s House’s mission, a northeast Fort Wayne children’s grief center located near the intersection of St.Joe Center Road and Maplecrest. Named after Erin Farragh, who died at age 6 from unknown causes. The Junior League of Fort Wayne, led by Tracie Martin, a family friend, founded the program in her memory. Established in 1993, Erin’s House was the first of its kind in the state of Indiana and the 32nd in the nation. 

Anna Freels, marketing specialist at Erin’s House for Grieving Children, says this specialized support matters and gives children the opportunity to meet others who understand what they’re going through. 

“There’s something incredibly powerful about realizing you’re not the only one going through something,” Freels says. “That sense of belonging helps children feel seen, understood, and supported in a way that’s difficult to find anywhere else. When children  receive support early, they’re often better equipped to navigate school, relationships, and  life’s challenges in healthier ways.” 

To support these families, Erin’s House provides a variety of resources, including peer support, community outreach, and summer programs. One staple program offered on-site is Healing Journey, a 10-week evening peer-support program. Meeting once weekly, this program allows for children and teens to meet with others experiencing grief, learn coping skills, and honor the memories of their lost loved ones. 

According to Freels, these opportunities for connection are necessary for helping children. 

“Every part of the program is intentional, but the peer connection is what makes the biggest difference,” she says. “When youth realize everyone else in the room has experienced a death too, they stop feeling like they’re the only one. That shared understanding creates friendships,  confidence, and hope that often continues long after the program ends.” 

Additionally, Erin’s House offers biweekly guided family sessions, as well as quarterly check-ins with individuals who have already completed their program. Freels shares that these group sessions allow children to be seen in their grief and make connections. 

For families unable to visit the facility, Erin’s House offers various offsite outreach programs. For example, they partner with local schools and community organizations to offer 6-week programs, educational workshops, adult training sessions, and camps such as Camp Good Grief. 

Freels asserts that grief should not impact the way that children experience their childhoods. 

 “Grief doesn’t mean childhood has to stop, and kids stop having fun. Camp reminds families that healing can include fun, laughter, and making new memories.” 

She adds that children need spaces where they are able to experience their emotions without being held to adult standards. 

“We don’t expect adults to process a death the same way, so we shouldn’t expect children to either,” she says. “Every child’s journey is unique, and sometimes the greatest gift we can give them is letting them know that however they’re feeling today is OK.” 

Regardless of the program, Erin’s House is strictly committed to providing all services at no cost to families. 

“Families who have experienced the death of someone in their lives are already carrying so much,” Freels says. “We never want finances to become another obstacle to getting help. Every child deserves access to grief support, regardless of their circumstances. By providing our  programs at no cost, families can focus on healing instead of worrying about how they’ll pay for services.” 

To keep these resources completely free, Erin’s House relies on community support and fundraising. Currently, they are hosting the Fuel Hope BMW Giveaway, in which they partnered with Kelly Automotive Group in order to give away a 2026 BMW X3 xDrive30. For $50, individuals can purchase a ticket for a chance to win the vehicle. This runs until November 13, and the winner will be announced on November 19, which is also National Children’s Grief Awareness Day. 

Their other fundraising events include the second annual Healing Heart Hustle 5K on August 30 on the Purdue Fort Wayne campus, offering both in-person and virtual participation. The purchase of a ticket will give participants various perks, including a race-day T-shirt. 

These events and others allow Erin’s House to offer their services at no cost to grieving families, and help the local community to learn about their services. Freels shares that these events have grown in popularity and have had a positive impact on Erin’s House. 

“Every conversation, every participant, and every shared story helps spread awareness that grief support is available right here in our community,” she says. “Last year, more than 300 participants joined us, and we actually outgrew our venue, so we’re excited to be able to welcome even more people this year.” 

For Freels, communicating this impact is deeply rewarding. She shares that being part of this program has helped her to understand the importance of this type of support.

“It’s incredibly rewarding knowing that my creativity and marketing help connect grieving children and families with the support they need,” Freels says. “Every campaign, social media  post, or email has the potential to reach a family who doesn’t yet know we’re here.”

Freels also adds that there is a common misconception about the work done at Erin’s House, assuming that the program is a sad place to work, when she considers it to be the opposite. 

“While the reason families come to us is heartbreaking, what happens at Erin’s House is connection, laughter, healing, and so much growth,” she shares. “I get a front row seat to those stories of transformation, and then I get to  share them with our community.”

Freels also emphasizes the organization’s outreach relies heavily on community members willing to volunteer with Erin’s House and strengthen their programs. She shares that Erin’s House programs would not be the same without the dedication of the “heart healers.” 

“They dedicate their time once a week to walk alongside our children, teens, and families, and Erin’s House wouldn’t be what it is today without them.” 

Individuals who wish to learn more about Erin’s House mission and services can visit their website, which includes information detailing how to donate, volunteer, and sign up for their programs. They can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or called at 260-423-2466.