The Organization serves the following population:

Children from age 3 through 24 along with their adult caregivers, are referred by schools, funeral homes, hospices, medical professionals, social service agencies, and therapists. Unlike other bereavement programs, which typically run 4–8 weeks, Lighthouse provides ongoing support, helping children and families adjust over time and revisit grief at important milestones. For children under six, we are the only grief support service in the GTA. Lighthouse also focuses on prevention: early support helps reduce the risk of depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, and social withdrawal. Our programs help families rebuild trust, confidence, and coping tools after a profound loss.

 How does this charity serve Burlington/Halton directly:

Although the Lighthouse is based in Oakville, our reach and impact extend deeply into neighbouring communities. In just the past three years alone, more than 100 children and teens from Burlington and Halton Hills have participated in our peer support groups. These are not just numbers they represent young lives forever changed by loss, and families seeking a place where their children feel safe, seen, and supported. In fact, Burlington is home to the second largest group of participants accessing our services, highlighting both the need and the trust families in this community place in the Lighthouse. Despite not being physically located in Oakville, families continue to travel to access our programs demonstrating the critical gap our services are helping to fill. This growing demand speaks to the importance of expanding awareness and access within Burlington and surrounding areas. With increased support, we can reach even more families who may not yet know that help exists, or who are waiting for a place where their child can begin to heal. Every child we support is a reminder of why this work matters because behind every statistic is a story of grief, resilience, and the profound impact of not having to face loss alone.

The donated funds would be used for: 

If successful in receiving funding from 100 Women Who Care Burlington, these funds would have a direct and meaningful impact on the children and families we serve in Burlington, Halton Hills, and surrounding communities. At the Lighthouse, it costs approximately $1,250 to support one child or teen for an entire year in our grief support programs. This investment provides them with access to consistent, peer-based support in a safe and compassionate environment where they can share their experiences, build coping skills, and begin to heal alongside others who truly understand. Funding would immediately support the children and youth currently participating in our programs, ensuring that these vital services remain accessible and free of charge to families who need them. For many, this support becomes a lifeline during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Any additional funding would allow us to expand our reach, growing awareness and outreach efforts in Burlington, Halton Hills, and surrounding areas where gaps in grief support still exist. Too many families are unaware that help is available, or face barriers to accessing it. With increased resources, we can connect with more schools, community partners, and families to ensure that no child feels alone in their grief. Ultimately, this funding is an investment in healing, connection, and hope. It allows us not only to sustain the care we provide today, but to reach the children and families who are still waiting for support ensuring that no child has to grieve alone. Please note that any additional funding would go toward increasing outreach and awareness in Burlington, Halton Hills and surrounding areas where there is a need.

 The donated funds would be used for:

If successful in receiving funding from 100 Women Who Care Burlington, these funds would have a direct and meaningful impact on the children and families we serve in Burlington, Halton Hills, and surrounding communities. At the Lighthouse, it costs approximately $1,250 to support one child or teen for an entire year in our grief support programs. This investment provides them with access to consistent, peer-based support in a safe and compassionate environment where they can share their experiences, build coping skills, and begin to heal alongside others who truly understand. Funding would immediately support the children and youth currently participating in our programs, ensuring that these vital services remain accessible and free of charge to families who need them. For many, this support becomes a lifeline during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Any additional funding would allow us to expand our reach, growing awareness and outreach efforts in Burlington, Halton Hills, and surrounding areas where gaps in grief support still exist. Too many families are unaware that help is available, or face barriers to accessing it. With increased resources, we can connect with more schools, community partners, and families to ensure that no child feels alone in their grief. Ultimately, this funding is an investment in healing, connection, and hope. It allows us not only to sustain the care we provide today, but to reach the children and families who are still waiting for support ensuring that no child has to grieve alone. Please note that any additional funding would go toward increasing outreach and awareness in Burlington, Halton Hills and surrounding areas where there is a need.

The Organization’s current sources of funding are:

Because the Lighthouse does not receive any provincial or federal funding, we are responsible for raising over $1 million each year to ensure our programs remain free and accessible to every child, teen, and family who turns to us in their time of need. This ongoing support is only possible because of a diverse, community-driven network of generosity. Every dollar raised reflects the belief that no child should have to grieve alone, and that healing should never depend on a family’s ability to pay. Our annual funding is made possible through: 45% from fundraising events 30% from grants, including community foundations and corporate partners 20% from community groups, service clubs, and individual donors 5% from United Way Each of these contributions plays a vital role in sustaining our programs. Together, they allow us to provide consistent, compassionate peer support to grieving children and families while also expanding our reach to those who may not yet know that help is available. Every year, we rely on the strength of our community to bridge the gap between need and support, and it is because of this collective effort that the Lighthouse continues to be a safe place for healing, connection, and hope