Songs That Hold Us

Songs That Hold Us is a benefit evening created to support The Waiting Place — a grief and trauma companioning center offering safe, sacred space for those navigating loss. Through music and conversation, we gather to listen, reflect, and be held together.

About Songs That Hold Us

Songs That Hold Us is a musical conversation between Patti Merrill and longtime family friend Whitne Strain, created in support of The Waiting Place Foundation.

Throughout the evening, Patti reflects on the loss of her daughter 31 years ago and the passing of her late husband in March of 2025. Through music, memory, and honest conversation, she shares stories of love, grief, caregiving, and the vision that continues to guide the heart of The Waiting Place.

Whitne has been a close witness to many seasons of Patti’s life and loss. During Roland’s illness, she would often sing to him, including several of the songs featured in this special evening, songs that became deeply meaningful to him and to their family.

Featured songs include:

  • Annie’s Song

  • Hallelujah

  • Don’t Be Afraid

  • Desperado

  • Can’t Help Falling in Love

More than a performance, Songs That Hold Us is an invitation into remembrance, reflection, and the kind of connection that grief often asks of us. Together, Patti and Whitne create space for stories that are tender, honest, and deeply human.

This event also supports the continued growth of The Waiting Place Foundation and the spaces of grief support, companionship, and community it hopes to provide for others navigating loss.

Why Give?

  • Help Create Grief Care Packages

    Your support helps provide thoughtful care packages that offer comfort, connection, and care to individuals, families and communities navigating grief and loss.

  • Make Support More Accessible

    Donations help provide scholarship opportunities so more people can receive grief companionship and support regardless of financial circumstances.

  • Build Future Retreats & Programs

    Every contribution helps lay the foundation for future grief groups, retreats, workshops, and community-centered support through The Waiting Place.

  • Support Honest Grief Conversations

    Funding helps us continue creating podcasts, events, and resources that encourage open, compassionate conversations around grief and healing.

  • Help People Feel Less Alone

    Your donation helps create spaces where grief can be witnessed gently, honestly, and in connection with supportive community and care.

  • Invest Long-Term in the Community

    The Waiting Place is being built intentionally to provide lasting support, meaningful resources, and human-centered care for those navigating loss.

3% Cover the Fee

Frequently Asked Questions

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