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National Grief and Bereavement Day

Grieving is a universal experience.

The grief experienced throughout many BC and Yukon communities, nationally and worldwide, is significant. This year, CHPCA reminds everyone through the National Grief and Bereavement Day to Reach Out! This day serves as a reminder that you are not alone in this. Support is available at the many Hospice Societies throughout BC and the Yukon. 

Grief and Bereavement Day serves as a poignant reminder of the universal journey of loss and the importance of support during these challenging times. In British Columbia and the Yukon, hospice societies rely significantly on the dedication of volunteers to navigate the complex landscape of grief. These individuals play a vital role in providing emotional support, companionship, and a comforting presence to those grappling with the profound effects of loss.


In a province and territory where the importance of community care is underscored, hospice societies and their volunteers stand out as pillars of strength.

Their commitment not only eases the burden of grief for those directly affected but also fosters a culture of empathy and understanding within the broader community. Grief and Bereavement Day serves as a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable contributions of hospice societies and their volunteers, recognizing their role in weaving a tapestry of support for those traversing the challenging terrain of loss.

Mark your calendar!
November 17th, 2026



2026 National Theme: Shine a Light on Grief Support in Canada

Grief touches every community.
Support should too.

Grief and bereavement are universal human experiences. Whether we are grieving the death of someone we love, supporting a family member, navigating serious illness or experiencing significant changes in our lives, grief can affect our emotional, physical and social well-being.

Yet many people across British Columbia continue to face grief without access to the understanding, connections and community supports they need.

This National Grief and Bereavement Day, BCHPCA joins the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) in recognizing the 2026 national theme, Shine a Light on Grief Support in Canada.

Together, we are raising awareness of the importance of grief literacy, compassionate communities and accessible grief and bereavement care.

Grief is universal. Access to support is not.

Grief does not follow a predictable timeline, and there is no single right way to experience it.

For some, support comes through family, friends, cultural traditions and community connections. Others may benefit from peer support, facilitated groups, professional counselling or specialized services.

Across British Columbia, community hospice societies provide essential grief and bereavement supports, including individual and group programs, volunteer companionship, caregiver support, community education and connections to additional resources.

However, the availability of these services can vary considerably depending on where someone lives and the resources available in their community.

Where we live should not determine whether we can access compassionate grief and bereavement support.

Remember. Reflect. Connect
November 19, 2024

Grief can make us hesitant to connect with those around us, whether we are the person grieving or someone around them. When someone we know is faced with grief, we can often find ourselves at a loss for words. When we are grieving ourselves, we may not know what support we need.

National Grief and Bereavement Day on November 19, 2024, is the time for us to reflect and take action to create connection with those around us on their grief journey.

This year, Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) is calling on all of us to reflect on our own grief journeys, offer support to those around us, and engage in actions that create meaningful connections. Their campaign highlights resources, stories, and strategies to help us support ourselves and others through difficult times.

Join the conversation and learn more about the resources available to help navigate grief by visiting CHPCA's website. Let’s come together to make sure no one has to grieve alone.



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About the association

BCHPCA represents its members: individuals and organizations that deliver hospice/palliative care and bereavement services and programs across British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

Contact us

Email: office@bchpca.org
Main Line: (604) 267-7024
Toll Free: 1-(877) 410-6297

Unit 1100- 1200 West 73rd Ave,
Vancouver, BC, V6P 6G5

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The BC Hospice Palliative Care Association (BCHPCA) recognizes the traditional land of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples who have walked before us and minded the lands we now call home for time immemorial. Hospice Societies have been able to support, aid and care for many people on these same lands.

The BCHPCA Offices are located on the ancestral, traditional, and unceded lands of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and TsleilWaututh Nations.


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