WHEREAS, children and young people across the State of Maine experience grief after the death of an important person in their life, which profoundly impacts their social, emotional, mental, and social well-being; and

WHEREAS, it is estimated that 1 in 10 children in Maine will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the age of 18, a life-altering event that requires compassionate support from families, schools, organizations, and communities; and

WHEREAS, Children's Grief Awareness Day, observed annually on the third Thursday of November, provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the unique needs of grieving children and the importance of accessible grief support programs; and

WHEREAS, by recognizing Children's Grief Awareness Day in Maine, we encourage greater understanding of the impact of grief on children and advocate for resources, support networks, and educational efforts to help children navigate their grief in healthy and constructive ways; and

WHEREAS, the month of November is also designated at National Children's Grief Awareness Month, further encouraging communities to come together in support of children facing the challenges of grief and loss; and

WHEREAS, all children deserve the opportunity to grieve in a supportive environment where they feel understood, heard, and empowered to express their feelings; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Governor Janet T. Mills, do hereby proclaim November 21, 2024, as

Children’s Grief Awareness Day

throughout the State of Maine, and I urge all citizens, schools, organizations, and institutions to observe this day with activities and events that provide support, education, and awareness around the needs of grieving children.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this seventh day of November Two Thousand Twenty-Four