Resources for Grieving Parents: You Are Not Alone
Losing a child is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can face. While it may seem like there is nowhere to turn and that no one understands the pain and suffering you're experiencing, don't lose hope.
You are not alone. There are organizations, support groups, and compassionate people who understand your pain and are available to support you through this tremendously difficult time. This comprehensive guide connects you with grief support resources, counseling services, online communities, and financial assistance programs available to parents who have lost a child.
Whether you're looking for local support groups, grief counseling services, financial assistance for funeral costs, or resources for grieving children, we've compiled trusted organizations that can help you navigate this journey.
Quick Access to Help
The Compassionate Friends Network
Peer support groups for bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents
With locations in all 50 US States, The Henzi Foundation recommends reaching out to a local chapter or finding a location online through their website.
Many parents who have lost their children prematurely turn to The Compassionate Friends Network for help and you can too.
If you cannot find a location close to you or need to reach out to someone who understands your pain - they also have a listing of 24/7 Facebook Groups that are always available to help. These are real people and groups run by bereaved parents, feel safe and confident reaching out.
If you are in a position to give to a wonderful service to grieving parents, we also believe this is money well donated. See their donation page here to donate online.
"There are no strangers at TCF meetings-only friends you have not yet met."
- The Compassionate Friends Network
MISS Foundation
Counseling, advocacy, and support for families facing child loss
The foundation also runs the Selah Carefarm, a sanctuary where traumatically bereaved families can interact with rescued animals and nature. The foundation offers training for providers who work with bereaved families, as well as testimonials, news and stories about their work.
The MISS Foundation also offers online forums and support groups for direct help should you or someone you know need it.
KAREfarm
Everyone needing respite and healing for a loss, no matter the cause of the loss or the background of those involved, is welcome at KAREfarm.
You can heal at a retreat that will not turn you away while KAREfarm will provide support, lodging and meals at no cost so there is nothing between you and the support that can help. In beautiful Brooksville, KY you can connect with others and receive support from grief facilitators on 97 acres of rolling hills and escape into miles of trails, fish in the lake and more while "glamping" around those who actually know what you're going through.
In times where you think that no one understands the difficulty you may be facing, KAREfarm is a place to understand you're not alone and talk to those who are facing similar circumstances while escaping the surroundings you find yourself now.
POMC - Parents of Murdered Children
Sadly too many of our children are taken away from us at the hands of another. The Parents of Murdered Children group has a resources page that's a great starting point if you've found yourself in this awful situation.
They are also looking for your support and are taking donations online through their portal here.
Victim Connect
A resource center for victims of violent acts they offer a place for you to start if one of your loved ones has been the victim of a violent crime. See their Homicide and Grief page to start.
24/7 Hotline: 1-855-4VICTIM (1-855-484-2846)
If you are uncomfortable talking by phone they offer an online chat service available at chat.victimconnect.org.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Sadly one of the leading causes of death for teenagers is suicide. Knowing this the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, or AFSP, has put together a resources page with listing for those who have survived someone who has committed suicide.
The Henzi Foundation also recommends giving, if possible, to this great cause to help drive down the reason we lose our loved ones too soon. Learn more and how you can donate here.
SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
If none of the services above apply or you don't find condolence in what they have to offer the service SAMHSA.gov, operates a toll free line that can help connect you to the right service.
Call The 24/7 Help Line
TTY: 1-800-487-4889
Free, confidential, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Their services are free and confidential with an aim to get you connected with the right service. If you are facing a mental health problem due to loss, fighting addiction or difficulty grieving and need to talk to a professional or support group they can get you on the right path.
We especially recommend this service if you are a parent needing direction on how to best find help for the siblings affected by the loss of a child. Support groups and counseling might be the best answer, and if you find that you are in a position where counseling is out of your price range they can help.
Resources for Grieving Children and Siblings
Support services specifically for children who have lost a sibling or loved one
The WARM Place
The WARM Place helps them connect with other families who understand their loss and provides a safe and compassionate space for them to heal. Someone who has lost a child might want to leverage their services for their other children who survived because they can benefit from the emotional support, coping skills, and sense of belonging that The WARM Place provides.
"There's something that nobody else can do for you besides a group of people who have been in your shoes and that's what The WARM Place is for us."
- Parent, WARM Place
Other Resources to Check Out
Lifenet
Lifenet has a budding listing of grief support services for those who have lost someone. The focus is on the Washington State area but with some help they could and will list more resources. This is a page to check out if you're in Washington state, Virginia or Florida or something to watch.
NICU Helping Hands
NICU Helping Hands is a charity that helps guide those who have lost a baby to several support services and has materials and their own worksheets and more to help you in your time of suffering. Take a look at their page to see if what they offer is right for what you need. From family support to one-on-one needs, they might have what you're looking for.
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep is a charity resource for those who have lost a baby who provides photography support for those facing a loss of a baby. The testimonial on their site says their work has made people feel more blessed looking back than regretful of their loss. Maybe their service can be of help or you can contribute to their cause of volunteer.
Financial Assistance for Funeral Costs
Organizations that help families struggling to pay for funeral expenses
Final Farewell
Final Farewell is a service that helps parents struggling to pay for laying their child to rest. They offer a form to ask for assistance.
"Final Farewell helps families provide an appropriate funeral for their child when they cannot afford to do so. We believe that every child deserves a dignified farewell, regardless of their family's financial situation."
Frequently Asked Questions About Grief Support Resources
How do I find a local support group near me?
The Compassionate Friends Network has chapters in all 50 US states. Visit their website to search for a local chapter by zip code or city. Many chapters meet monthly and offer both in-person and virtual meeting options. If you're in the Cincinnati, OH area, you can also contact The Henzi Foundation for local resource recommendations.
Are these support services free?
Yes, most of the organizations listed on this page offer free support services. The Compassionate Friends, MISS Foundation, and SAMHSA all provide free resources. Some organizations may offer additional paid counseling services, but peer support groups and helplines are typically free of charge.
What if I can't afford funeral costs for my child?
If you're in the Cincinnati, OH area or surrounding communities, The Henzi Foundation provides direct financial assistance for funeral costs with zero administrative fees. We also recommend contacting Final Farewell, which helps families nationwide. Learn more about our mission and how we help families during their most difficult moments.
How can I help my other children cope with the loss of their sibling?
Children grieve differently than adults and may need specialized support. The WARM Place offers peer support groups specifically for children and families. SAMHSA can also connect you with local child grief counselors. It's important to address children's grief early, as unprocessed grief can affect them long-term.
Is it normal to need help years after losing a child?
Absolutely. Grief has no timeline, and many parents find they need support at different stages of their grief journey. Whether it's been weeks, months, or years since your loss, these organizations are here to help. There's no expiration date on grief support.
You Are Not Alone
Grieving the loss of a child is one of the most difficult experiences a parent can face. These organizations are here to provide support, understanding, and resources. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you're in the Cincinnati, OH area and need financial assistance for funeral costs, The Henzi Foundation may be able to help. We understand the financial burden that compounds the emotional devastation of losing a child, and we're here to support families in our community.
If you have suggestions for this page, know of additional resources that should be included, or have questions about how to help a parent in need, please reach out to us. We're committed to keeping this resource page comprehensive and up-to-date.
For more information about The Henzi Foundation's work, visit our mission page or read about our team and the family behind this organization.