The Hal Bruno Camps for children of Fallen Firefighters, ages 4 - 17, was held June 29 – Sunday, July 1 in New Jersey. Camp Hal (Healing After Loss) for campers (ages 4-6) met with other children their age and shared special stories about their firefighter. They participated in sessions that focused on processing and expressing emotions. These 7 campers along with their parent learned of activities and programs dealing with grief and recovery that they can participant in together. Campers each received a book, “Sherman the Fire Cat”, written and donated by Fire Hero family member. Campers enjoyed the usual camp activities such as fun and games through play therapy and art activities.
39 campers (7-17) attended the NFFF Hal Bruno’s Comfort Zone Camp (CZC) which took place at the Johnsonburg Camp & Retreat Center. Near the scenic Delaware Water Gap with the Appalachian Mountains as a backdrop, here campers met their “Big Buddy” and other camp support staff that would spend the weekend with them. Most “Big Buddies” work within the fire service and they volunteer to support a camper throughout the weekend. Campers enjoyed songs and S’mores, swimming, archery, zip lines, etc. Campers talk about their firefighter and learn healthy coping skills to assist them with their grief. Comfort Zone Campers share their experience regarding the death of their firefighter in “Healing Circles” and participate in confidence course activities. The campers make lasting friendships while forming networks of support with peers. The friendships created extend well beyond camp, reinforcing that the campers are never alone and that their firefighter will never be forgotten.
On the final day of camp, little campers and their families traveled with the moms of the CZC Campers from the hotel to the Johnsonburg Camp & Retreat Center to reunite with the older campers. All campers participant in a closing Memorial Service dedicated to their firefighters.
Camps empower children experiencing grief to fully realize their capacity to heal and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. During the parents’ component, moms can connect with one another for support from others in similar situations. Camp evaluations are being received, early feedback implies that the camp was successful in introducing allowing attendees to better understand healthy coping skills. The NJ location was excellent and the facilitator for the Parents Component was well received.
Bereaved children who have lost a firefighter (first responders) in the line of duty.
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