MISS Foundation 2023 Annual Report: Grief Support & Carefarm Expansion
Overview of MISS Foundation's Grief Support Services
The MISS Foundation's 2023 Annual Report highlights our profound work in supporting individuals and families enduring traumatic grief, especially after the loss of a child. Founded by Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, we offer a range of grief support services including counseling, peer support groups, and Compassionate Bereavement Care (CBC) training. Our mindfulness-based approach integrates trauma-informed care and nature-based support at the Selah Carefarm, the first therapeutic carefarm for those navigating traumatic loss.
Expansion of Selah Carefarm
Compassionate Environment for Traumatic Grief
In 2023, we expanded the Selah Carefarm to meet the growing demand for grief support. Located in Northern Arizona, this green, vegan carefarm provides non-medicalized, eco-therapy programs for bereaved individuals and families. With an additional 6.8 acres of land, new lodging, and program spaces, the carefarm allows clients to connect with nature, rescue animals, and a compassionate community, promoting mindfulness and emotional health.
Evidence-Based Grief Counseling and Care
Through Selah Carefarm, we delivered over 4,100 counseling hours and served 605 new clients in 2023. Our grief support model incorporates evidence-based practices, integrating human-animal connections, mindfulness, and restorative spaces to foster physical and emotional support for traumatic grief.
Comprehensive Services for Traumatic Grief
Peer Mentoring and Support Groups
Our peer support services are a cornerstone of our work, offering grieving families a community of understanding and comfort. We held 115 regular support groups, both virtual and in-person, and matched 155 individuals with volunteer HOPE mentors. These services help clients feel seen and supported as they navigate their grief journey.
Training for Grief Care Providers
In 2023, we trained 129 new providers in our CBC Training and Certification Program. This program equips professionals with the skills to offer compassionate, trauma-informed care for bereaved families. Our graduates include mental health providers, physicians, social workers, and first responders, all dedicated to providing grief support in their communities.
Financial Impact and Donor Contributions
Our annual operating budget of approximately $1 million was funded primarily through individual donations and program revenues. We provided $300,000 in free or discounted services to those in financial need. The generosity of our donors made it possible to expand our services and continue helping families across the globe.
Conclusion: The Importance of Compassionate Grief Support
Through the growth of Selah Carefarm and the expansion of our grief support services, the MISS Foundation remains committed to providing safe, non-medicalized, compassionate care to families in their darkest hours. Download the full 2023 Annual Report to learn more about how we are transforming lives through nature-based grief support and community care.