Two Communities, One Tradition of Joy: Good Grief’s 2025 Holiday Brunch Celebrations

On Sunday, December 7th, families in both our Princeton and Morristown communities gathered for one of Good Grief’s most cherished traditions: our annual Holiday Brunch.

What began years ago as a simple way to bring families together during a tender season has grown into a day filled with connection, comfort, and celebration which was made possible by extraordinary generosity and the hearts of our Good Grief community.

This year, Ruth’s Chris Steak House generously donated the first 50 seats at each location, ensuring families could attend free of charge. Additional seats were covered by anonymous donors, allowing every current Good Grief family who wished to join us to do so at no cost. Their kindness created two beautiful gatherings (held simultaneously in Princeton and Parsippany for our Morristown families) that were filled with warmth and wonder.

Moments of Joy, Creativity, and Connection
Across both brunches, the spirit of the season was everywhere. Families enjoyed:

• A festive buffet and plenty of hot chocolate
• Winter-themed crafts donated by our incredible youth partners
• Cookie decorating (one child shared, “I don’t like to eat cookies, but I really like decorating them with icing and sprinkles!”)
• Laughter, connection, and gentle moments of remembrance
• Visits from Santa! Who checked lists, posed for photos, and spread holiday magic

But above all, what filled each room was togetherness. Grieving families often enter the holiday season with a complicated mix of emotions. These brunches offer a space where joy and sorrow can sit side by side; where families can create new memories, honor old ones, and feel held by a community that understands.

One parent shared, “We are making new memories today, happy ones.”
Another guest told us, “I’m not usually social, but I am here. This is amazing.”

These reflections speak to what makes this tradition so meaningful. Good Grief is a place where families don’t have to choose between joy and grief. Both are welcome. Both are real. And both can be softened by community.

Powered by Youth, Volunteers, and Generosity
So much of what made the day special came from the hands and hearts of our community partners. Girl Scout troops from Central Avenue School, Tory J School, and Harding; Delbarton Middle School students; and The Grove’s two Middle School Youth Councils and Leadership Council all helped prepare the craft kits used at the brunches. Their creativity brought smiles, focus, and a sense of tradition to every table.

Our volunteer facilitators, interns, and staff helped families feel seen and supported, while donor generosity ensured this day remained accessible to all.

Relive the Celebration
View the full photo albums:
Princeton →https://ow.ly/77BS50XH4oA
Parsippany/Morristown →https://ow.ly/mxik50XH4oE

Whether captured in a burst of laughter, a quiet moment, or a child proudly showing off their decorated cookie, these photos tell the story of a community coming together with tenderness, joy, and love.

At Good Grief, peer support is at the heart of everything we do. It helps children (and adults) feel seen, heard, and less isolated.

Thank You
To every volunteer, facilitator, youth partner, donor, and family who joined us: thank you for making this tradition shine. Your generosity and presence help make the holidays just a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more connected for the families we serve.