What Is Camp HUG?
Camp HUG (Help Understanding Grief) provides a safe and welcoming space where kids can explore their emotions through art, recreation, discussion, and group activities designed specifically for grieving youth. The program encourages healing through connection while helping participants understand that their feelings are normal and that support is available.
Grief can be difficult for anyone to navigate, especially for kids.
While every family's experience is unique, many kids benefit from opportunities to connect with others who understand what they are going through.
Our goal is to help kids and youth carry grief with greater understanding, support, and hope.
Who Camp HUG is for
Camp HUG is open to children and teens ages 5–17 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, grandparent, caregiver, or other significant family member.
The program welcomes participants from all backgrounds and supports children grieving any cause of death.
To help create the safest and most meaningful experience possible, all campers must complete the registration process and receive confirmation before attending. Space may be limited based on location and program capacity.
If you are unsure whether Camp HUG is the right fit for your child, our team is happy to answer your questions and help guide you through the process.
What you can expect
Camp HUG combines recreation, creative expression, education, and peer support in a way that is engaging and appropriate for each age group.
Throughout the program, children participate in activities that encourage conversation, remembrance, self-expression, and connection. Campers spend time with trained grief professionals, volunteers, and peers who help create an environment where every child feels seen, respected, and supported.
Many families tell us that one of the most meaningful parts of Camp HUG is the realization that their child is not alone.
When children meet others who have experienced a similar loss, they often discover a sense of belonging that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
Camp Locations & Registration
Camp HUG: Pensacola
July 25, 2026
The R.O.C. Building
500 N Palafox St
Pensacola, FL 32501
Camp HUG in Pensacola is offered in partnership with Valerie's House Pensacola, whose experienced grief specialists and support staff help guide programming and provide compassionate care throughout the camp experience.
Registration Open
Camp HUG: Panama City
August 1, 2026
The Science and Discovery Center
308 Airport Rd
Panama City, FL 32405
Camp HUG in Panama City is offered in partnership with Angel House Bereavement Center, whose compassionate grief professionals and support staff work alongside Peoples Hospice Foundation to provide a safe, supportive, and meaningful experience for participating children and families.
Registration Open
Stay Connected
If registration is not currently open in your area, we encourage you to join our mailing list to receive updates about future camps and opportunities.
Our Sponsors
Camp HUG is made possible by a community that believes no child should have to face grief alone.
We are deeply grateful for the grief professionals, volunteers, community organizations, sponsors, and supporters who show up with compassion and generosity to make this program available at no cost to local children and families.
By investing in connection and care, these partners help create a space where children can feel seen, supported, and understood as they navigate one of life's most difficult experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
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There is no cost for children and families to participate in Camp HUG.
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Yes. Registration and confirmation are required for all campers.
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Camp HUG serves children and teens ages 5–17.
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Children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, grandparent, caregiver, or other significant family member are welcome to participate.
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Yes. Campers are supported by trained grief professionals, staff, and volunteers throughout the program.
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Families can join our mailing list to receive updates about future Camp HUG opportunities and registration announcements.
Help Make Camp HUG Possible
Because of the generosity of donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, Camp HUG remains free for participating families. Whether you choose to give, volunteer, or partner with us, your support helps create opportunities for healing, connection, and hope.