The WARM Place Expands to Help More Grieving Families in Fort Worth
A grief counseling center in Fort Worth, Texas, known as The WARM Place, has expanded its services to assist more grieving families in the area. The center, which has been in operation since 1989, has helped over 45,000 children and their families cope with loss and grief. With a growing population in North Texas and a commitment to offering support to anyone in need, the demand for their services has consistently surpassed their available space.
To address this issue, The WARM Place recently completed a $2 million expansion project, adding 3,400 square feet of space. This expansion increases their capacity by 25%, allowing them to serve additional families and hold community trainings for schools, nonprofits, and others interested in establishing children’s grief programs. With over 120 families currently on their waitlist, the center aims to ensure they can meet the needs of every child seeking their help.
The effectiveness of The WARM Place in aiding the healing process is evident in the stories shared by families who have benefited from their services. The Miller family, consisting of Matt and Lynn Miller and their three daughters, tragically lost their fourth child Grant to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in 2019. Struggling with overwhelming grief, they turned to The WARM Place with a crucial question: how could they help their daughters navigate their grief?
The Miller family’s experience is not unique. Elijah Applon, who lost his brother Derrick in a jet-ski accident and then his father in a motor vehicle crash, emphasized the importance of having a support group where he could openly discuss his grief. His mother, Amanda Applon, expressed gratitude for The WARM Place being the only place where her son feels comfortable sharing his feelings. Elijah himself highlighted the positive impact of connecting with other children in similar situations, providing a sense of understanding and support.
The expansion of The WARM Place will ensure that more families can access the valuable services offered by the center. The profound impact it has had on families like the Millers and the Applons is a testament to the vital role it plays in the healing journey. By fostering a sense of community and providing a safe space for children and young adults to express their grief, The WARM Place has become an essential resource for those coping with the loss of a loved one in Fort Worth.
The mission of The WARM Place is to provide grief support services to children aged 3.5 to 18, as well as young adults aged 19 to 25 who have experienced the death of a family member. Their dedicated staff and expansion efforts exemplify their commitment to ensuring that no child or family member walks the difficult path of grief alone.
As they move forward with their expanded facility, The WARM Place aims to continue supporting children and families in their healing journey. The organization’s executives and staff are determined to meet the needs of every child who seeks their help, offering solace and support during one of life’s most challenging experiences.
