Nothing can prepare a parent for the loss of a child. Even with the well-intended comfort and support of family and friends, parents can feel isolated in their grief. Seeking out a community that understands can be overwhelming. Here is a list of online resources that offer a variety of support options for grieving parents.
Bereaved Parents of the USA
https://www.bereavedparentsusa.org/
Bereaved Parents of the USA (BP/USA) offers support, understanding, encouragement, and hope to fellow bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents after the death of a child. BP/USA connects the bereaved through chapters across the country, which meet on a regular basis to offer self-help support and comfort to local bereaved families. BP/USA publishes a digital newsletter to educate members about the grieving process. It also sponsors an annual Conference that features inspirational speakers, informative workshops, and heartfelt remembrance ceremonies.
The Compassionate Friends
https://www.compassionatefriends.org/
The Compassionate Friends (TCF) provides highly personal comfort, hope, and support to every family experiencing the death of a son or a daughter, a brother or a sister, or a grandchild, and helps others better assist the grieving family. Resources include an online magazine, private Facebook groups, local chapters, and more. TCF has over 600 chapters serving all 50 states plus Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam, in addition to a presence in more than 30 countries.
SUDC Foundation
The SUDC Foundation promotes awareness, advocates for research and supports those affected by sudden unexplained death in childhood. The SUDC Foundation provides services at no cost thanks to the generosity of private donations and significant fundraising efforts. Services include personalized support from family services staff, case advocacy to assist families with navigating the death investigation process, public and private online support groups and moderated social media pages, and more.
First Candle
First Candle is committed to the elimination of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths through education while providing support for grieving families who have suffered a loss. First Candle also offers memorial options.
Grieving Dads
Grieving Dads offers support to fathers who have lost a child. Founder Kelly Farley has a book and workbook available and offers workshops and coaching sessions to help dads cope with their grief.
Ryan Funeral Home offers bereavement support for the families we serve. Reach out to us if you have questions or need assistance. Additionally, we have a list of additional grief support resources available here.