To commemorate the 30th anniversary of The Den for Grieving Kids, the Junior League of Greenwich (JLG) designed and funded the installation of a custom bookshelf—and filled it with age-appropriate books and comforting teddy bears—to support children coping with the loss of a loved one. The project, which was just completed, was developed by JLG’s 2023–2024 New Member Class as part of a community impact initiative honoring The Den’s milestone anniversary.
Founded by the Junior League of Greenwich in 1993, The Den was created to provide a safe, welcoming environment for grieving children and their families. After launching and running the program for three years, JLG passed it on to Family Centers, which has continued its mission and expanded the program. Today, The Den remains a critical resource in lower Fairfield County, offering weekly peer support groups to children, teens, and families navigating grief.
“Thirty years ago, our members saw a need in the community and took action,” said Stacey Higdon, President of the Junior League of Greenwich. “We are honored to return to The Den and celebrate its legacy by offering this meaningful contribution to help children feel seen, supported, and comforted.”
“We are incredibly grateful to The Junior League for their ongoing support of the program they founded more than 30 years ago,” said Laine Blumenkopf, Manager of The Den for Grieving Kids. “The new lending library will provide additional support to our community outside of their time at Den. The children are also in love with the new adorable teddy bears.”
As a program of Family Centers, The Den for Grieving Kids continues to serve families free of charge, with support groups facilitated by trained volunteers working alongside licensed professionals. For more information about the Junior League of Greenwich and its legacy of community leadership, visit www.jlgreenwich.org
