Healing Boo-boos On The Inside
Wednesday - June 16, 2010 Share
By Cynthia White, Executive Director Kids hurt too
In 2009, 8-year-old Josh was diagnosed with a heart condition. It was frightening for his mother, a low-income single parent of two, college student and foster care alumna.
Josh now attends a loss from separation group at Kids hurt too. When asked how the program helps, Josh replied, “It helps me forget my dad.” He considered that a good thing, because the memories are painful. At the support group, families learn they are not alone and that people care.
Kids hurt too was named by children in 2006. It started as Outreach for Grieving Youth Alliance in 2001, providing positive peer support groups and mentoring programs for orphans, foster children and children in single-parent families. The nonprofit also includes the Hawaii Foster Youth Coalition, a youth-led organization.
One of the worst things that can happen to a child is losing a parent, resulting in fear and despair. Seeing them relax, open up and regain the sparkle in their eyes is nothing short of inspiring.
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Children make sure parents don’t forget a meeting. One mother’s children cried every night until they joined a group. Parents are comforted when they witness their children becoming emotionally stable and happier.
Kids hurt too will be at the Home, Garden and Remodeling Show June, 18, 19 and 20 offering a Children’s Healing Garden, a place where children learn that “Happiness Grows a Long Way!” They can take home a plant, too.
The garden was inspired by Dennis Kim of Native Plant Source, who started the Kids hurt too mentoring program “Seeds of Love,” teaching children how to cultivate plants. The Kids hurt too stage will feature LATKO, an international magician; Hawaii’s top comedians Augie T., Mel Cabang and Kaleo Pilanca; and Alyssandra Baniqued, Miss Hawaii High.
Kids hurt too is supported entirely by donations, and all services are free. To learn more or make a donation, visit www.kidshurttoo.org, e-mail .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call 808-Lil-Love (545-5683).
Hawaii charitable organizations may send requests for space in either Proof Positive or the free advertisement below to dchapman@midweek.com.
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