PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — Valerie’s House in Punta Gorda serves as a safe haven for children facing the profound challenges of grief after losing a loved one. Its welcoming atmosphere provides support for families, bridging the gap between sorrow and healing.
Middle school student Bryan Notorfrancesco recently shared with FOX 4’s Victoria Scott how Valerie’s House has transformed his life since the heartbreaking loss of his mother. His journey encapsulates the emotional struggle many young people experience in the wake of loss.
Engaging in various therapeutic exercises at Valerie’s House, Bryan finds solace and understanding. “I like it here,” he remarked. “I really like that it’s OK for you to give out your emotions.” For over a year, the nonprofit has been his refuge, a place where grief is acknowledged, and tears are welcomed.
“They talk about how it’s OK to cry when you miss her, and it’s OK that she had passed,” Bryan reflected, illustrating the gentle approach taken by the staff. Founded in 2016 by Angela Melvin, CEO of Valerie’s House, the nonprofit aims to provide a safe space where children can confront their feelings.
“Most people will tell you that if they don’t have an opportunity to talk about what’s inside of them, it comes out in other ways,” Melvin explained. Upon entering Valerie’s House, each child is welcomed to share their unique story, stating who they lost. For many, this act of sharing is monumental, a brave step toward healing.
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Valerie’s House serves as a safe haven for children dealing with grief
Bryan experienced the tragic loss of his mother four years ago due to a fentanyl overdose. His aunt, Andrea Notorfrancesco, has since taken on the role of caregiver. “It was an accidental overdose,” Andrea shared. “They took her to the hospital, and she was brain dead. Her heart stopped.” Such personal losses leave deep scars, yet they can also foster resilience.
Andrea noted significant changes in Bryan since his involvement with Valerie’s House. “He does better emotionally, physically, and I think when they go into their separate groups, it kind of gives everyone their own chance.” The group dynamics offer a safe space for children to express themselves without judgment.
Bryan engages in various projects that facilitate expression. “They do quite a bit of projects that kind of get them talking, and they actually get to keep them, and bring them home,” Andrea explained. Bryan has adorned his room with art pieces created at Valerie’s House. These artifacts serve not only as reminders of his journey but also as tangible forms of therapy.
Valerie’s House expanded its reach with the opening of a new facility in Punta Gorda in early 2024, furthering its mission of support and healing.
As Bryan shares memories of his mom at Valerie’s House, Melvin emphasizes the importance of the setting. “It’s a home away from home,” she said, capturing the essence of the environment cultivated within the nonprofit. However, the mission remains ongoing.
“We have quite a feat in front of us, because there’s probably 30 or 40,000 kids right here in our region who are grieving right now,” Melvin shared with conviction. The organization aims to reach every child in need, ensuring they are aware of the supportive resources available to them.
In addition to its Punta Gorda location, Valerie’s House extends its services to Fort Myers, Naples, and the Florida Panhandle, reaching communities devastated by loss. As people traverse the many facets of grief, places like Valerie’s House offer a critical light, illuminating the path to recovery and emotional understanding.
