Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Jessica’s House?

Jessica’s House is safe place for children, teens, young adults and their families to find support while grieving the death of a family member through therapeutic activities and play. Jessica's House also helps provide education or onsite support for schools and organizations throughout the surrounding communities.

How Are the Groups Organized?

Children and teens are placed in groups by age and type of death in their family. During the every-other-week, 90-minute session, these children check in, participate in art directives, group discussions and outdoor play.

We also offer groups for young adults, ages 18-40.

Groups for parents and caregivers of participating children and teens meet at the same time as their children.

All groups are facilitated by trained volunteers who are in turn coordinated by the professional staff of at Jessica’s House.

You can find a list of the support groups we offer here.

How Much Does It Cost?

Because of the generosity of the community, Jessica’s House is able to support grieving children and families at no cost to them. Families in grief are never charged for services, thanks to our donors.

How Can I Contribute?

We have many giving opportunities available.  We are always accepting monetary donations as well as the gift of volunteering. You can also support Jessica’s House by donating items for our program from our Wish List.

If you are interested in learning more about donation opportunities, including our Heart Circle Drive, please call 209-250-5395 for more information.

What Can I Expect from Family Orientation?

The informational orientation is for families who are interested in learning more about Jessica’s House and our services. Family orientation lasts about one hour. In that time, families will have a tour, experience an abbreviated group, have questions answered and receive application forms.

Coming to an orientation does not mean the child/teen becomes a participant. We encourage families to talk about the decision together.

How Long After a Death Does a Family Need to Wait Before Calling?

As soon as a family is ready, they can call 209-250-5395 and begin the process for participation in our peer support groups. We believe each person and family grieves differently, and the family is the best judge of when they are ready to grieve in a group setting.

Can Jessica’s House Support Spanish Speaking Families?

Yes, we have several staff and several volunteers who speak Spanish and can assist in answering your questions. Additionally, we also offer a Spanish Language Group for families. Please call 209-250-5395 and ask for Ellie, Marlen or Melissa for more information.

¿Puede Jessica's House apoyar a las familias en Español?

Sí, tenemos varios empleados y voluntarios que hablan Español y pueden ayudarlo a responder sus preguntas. También ofrecemos grupos en Español para familias. Llame al 209-250-5395 y pregunte por Ellie, Marlen o Melissa para obtener más información.

How Long Is a Family Expected to Attend Groups?

We believe there is no set length of time a family is expected to attend because everyone grieves differently. Our program is open ended, so each family chooses when to start and when to stop attending groups. When a family is enrolled in a group, we require a commitment to be punctual and to attend regularly for the maximum benefit to you and the other families in your group. A family is asked to call if they must be absent. Continuity of attendance is important in an effort to create a supportive environment for grief work.

What If a Child/Teen Needs Private Therapy?

Jessica’s House does not provide individual counseling. We use a peer support model. Upon request, we are more than happy to provide a list of counselors and other referral sources who work with children, teens, and/or adults who are grieving. We do not endorse therapists, but rather provide families with a list of resources and information by which they can select the right option for their particular needs.

How Do I Get My Child/Teen Started?

1. A parent or guardian calls 209-250-5395 or contact us here and a staff member takes basic information about your family and the person who died. We will schedule your family for a family orientation appointment. Your questions about Jessica’s House will be answered.

2. Your family will attend an informational family orientation appointment to tour Jessica’s House, to be introduced to the staff and program, to discuss participation and to ask questions. You will receive application forms, and we will explain them at this time.

3. After the family orientation your family will discuss participating. If interested, you complete and return the application forms.

4. When we receive your completed application forms, we will call you regarding group times. You and your child/teen will be invited to the appropriate group meeting which best fits your needs and schedule.

Do You Need Volunteers?

Yes! We are always looking for volunteers. We offer volunteer training three times a year. For more information on how to become a volunteer, visit our volunteer page, call 209-250-5395 or contact us for more information.