The Eucalyptus Tree exists to provide support and care for children and families experiencing life-threatening illness or grieving a death. Years ago, when a family encountered a crisis, children were to be “seen and not heard.” The popular ideology was to leave the children out of the confusion and commotion that is common when someone is sick or has died.

Today, we know that involvement in the process is the key to helping children cope with loss and change. Healthy life transitions are made when children are free to ask questions, talk about their feelings, and even help with decisions during the time the family is saying good-bye.

Because adults are often overwhelmed and distraught by their own grief, additional support is sometimes helpful. The Eucalyptus Tree program serves ill and grieving children, their families and friends. This program reinforces a child’s natural ability to heal through the normal grieving process.

The Eucalyptus Tree professionals and volunteers guide children through the grief journey. All services are available to family members of Cedar Valley Hospice patients, as well as all children and families in the community as they grieve the illness or death of someone they love. Services are provided within the Cedar Valley Hospice service area free of charge.

Support Services
Support from Katie and Quincy Koala come in the form of visits to the child’s home, school, hospital or another appropriate location. Our giant koalas come with a “Friend,” who is a trained Cedar Valley Hospice volunteer or staff member. Together, they promote honest communication between everyone present. A visit from the koalas often normalizes the unfortunate events that are taking place and provides a safe place to share memories and thoughts.

Older children are sometimes assigned a volunteer trained in grief and communication to provide additional support. These volunteers meet the child in the home, school, or hospital. Activities provided by the volunteer include positive ways for the older child to deal with feelings like sadness, fear, confusion, guilt, and loneliness.

Counseling and Support Groups


Grief Education
The Eucalyptus Tree is available to help educate the students and staff of the school or faith community about grief, loss, and change. Materials, programs, and crisis interventions for students of all ages and school staff are available in the event of a loss. Puppet shows, workshops, activities, and in-services may be scheduled by calling Cedar Valley Hospice. Community visits are planned with great care and personalized to meet individual circumstances.