NACoA’s Children’s Program Kit now includes instruction and session plans for children’s programs supporting children impacted by SUDs (COAs) whose parents have died.
Across the United States, a growing number of children are grieving the loss— not only of loved ones to death—but also of connection, stability, and safety due to the far-reaching impacts of the chronic disease of addiction. According to a recent study, more than 321,000 U.S. children lost a parent to drug overdose from 2011 to 2021. A recent federal study shows lives lost from the overdose crisis are felt across generations, emphasizing need to include children and families in support, especially when they have lost parents to the disease of addiction, or if substances were utilized during suicide.
These children are often forgotten or ignored - and sometimes even blamed - when parental death involves alcohol, drugs, or other substances. These children need the support of safe adults to help identify and manage their grief, as well as heal from the layers of trauma they have endured.
Using NACoA’s Children’s Program Kit, caring adults have everything they need to create children’s programs (K-12) to offer support and healing so these youth can live healthier lives. Learn more about the Children’s Program Kit here>>
During COA Awareness Week, NACoA provides an opportunity to hear from renowned experts on a variety of important topics. Today’s presentation provides important information about the value of these children’s programs and important considerations when planning to provide them in your community.
