Friday's Elmvale Fall Fair Parade became a moving tribute to love, legacy, and healing as students and staff from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School joined Seasons Centre for Grieving Children and Hospice Simcoe to mark 30 years of support for grieving families—honouring the memory of Samantha and Jessica Ramey.
In a sea of blue wristbands, every student and staff member walked in solidarity, symbolizing hope for children across Simcoe County who face the pain of loss. The parade, which began at Huronia Centennial Elementary School, featured Seasons Centre’s cherished float, Hope, accompanied by staff, volunteers, and flag bearers.
“This devastating experience was extremely challenging for everyone involved,” said Kevin Belcourt, Samantha’s former grade six teacher. “At the time, it would have been greatly appreciated if our students had access to the support of an organization such as Seasons Centre—services that help children openly express their feelings and develop coping skills to deal with their grief.”
The event also served as a lead-in to Children’s Grief Awareness Month in November, amplifying the Centre’s mission to ensure no child grieves alone. Founded in 1995 following the tragic loss of Samantha and Jessica, Seasons Centre has grown into a beacon of hope for families navigating loss.
“Seeing the community come together after all these years to honour their memory and the work that has grown from their legacy is deeply touching,” said Hospice Simcoe–Seasons Centre co-founder Rowley Ramey.
“We are deeply grateful to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and to the many dedicated volunteers who help us bring hope, healing, and understanding to grieving children and families every day," said executive director Kelly Hubbard.
Hospice Simcoe-Seasons Centre extended special thanks to Mrs. Pender and the students of Our Lady of Lourdes for their partnership and commitment to raising awareness about childhood grief. Their participation underscores the importance of accessible, no-cost bereavement support for families throughout Simcoe County.
