Grieving the loss of a loved one is hard any time, but especially difficult for many during the holiday season. Covenant Care Hospice is hoping to help those in the community who are mourning with a special program titled Coping with the Holidays.

"We do this for the bereaved because we know that the holidays stir some really intense emotions, especially if their loss is new and fresh," said Covenant Care Bereavement Coordinator Jill Chiesa. "It's not only Christmas, but Halloween, Thanksgiving and anniversaries can be especially hard."

The program aims to offer hope, understanding and guidance through the upcoming holiday season with practical tools those grieving can use to prepare for emotional upheaval and to cope with their feelings.

Coping tips for Christmas include making a special ornament for the lost loved one, and saying a prayer together as a family as it's hung on the Christmas tree. Visiting the cemetery during the holidays is also a good way to mourn, said Chiesa.

"We want people to celebrate the life of their loved one, mourn it," said Chiesa.

During the program there will be a memory table and those attending are invited to bring a picture of their loved one to place on the table.

Coping with the Holidays is a free event, set for 7 p.m. Tuesday at Monte Vista Chapel Activity Center, 1619 E. Monte Vista Ave.

For more information, call 664-2550.