1. How much do services cost?
We are fortunate to be able to offer our services at completely no-cost for each individual and family for whom we provide support. We do not bill insurance, and you do not need to maintain any relationship with Boston Medical Center to qualify for our support.
2. Where is the Center located?
Our Center’s administrative offices are located within Boston Medical Center, but our bereavement support is available completely remotely. If you have any questions about locating our office, please contact us.
3. How do I contact the Center for resources?
You can call, email, and follow us on Facebook or Instagram. You can also visit our contact us page for more information.
4. What are the Center’s hours?
While our Center is not an emergency service, our team is often available to flexibly connect with you based on your needs and availability.
5. What does your support look like?
Since each person's grief is different, our support is tailored to the unique needs of each individual family. Our bereavement specialist will contact you and work with you to provide the support that you need: a listening ear, free literature, as well as connections to licensed therapists, support groups, and peer mentors. Our comprehensive website also includes linkages to many helpful resources. Our Center also hosts commemorative opportunities throughout the year, including our annual Book of Remembrance and Walk to Remember.
6. I don't speak English. Does your Center provide support in other languages?
Through our large interpreter services department at Boston Medical Center, we can use translators in any language to talk with individuals and families where English is not a primary language. We are sensitive to the fact that many people who are grieving do best when they are given the opportunity to express their thoughts and emotions in their native language, and will work with you to try to locate these resources and supports.
7. Do I have to contact you immediately about my loss?
You are welcome to contact us whenever it feels right to do so. Families sometimes reach out years after a child’s death, and that is perfectly okay.
8. Is there a time limit on how long I can access services?
No. You can utilize our services for as long or as short a time as you might need.
9. How do I know if I qualify for your services?
Massachusetts families who have suffered a sudden or unexpected loss during pregnancy, infancy, or early childhood (up to three years of age), would be eligible for our support. However, even if your situation does not align with these parameters, we still encourage you to contact us, so that we may help find the services you seek.
10. Do you work with families outside of Massachusetts?
Our scope-of-work focuses on Massachusetts families. However, if you do not reside in Massachusetts and are seeking support, please do contact us, as we may be able to point you in the right direction.
11. My loss doesn’t quite fit into your mission, what do I do?
Please reach out. We will work to connect you with other resources or supports that might better suit your specific situation.
12. I have a friend or loved one that is grieving a sudden loss, what do I do?
Providing support to those who are grieving can be incredibly meaningful during such a devastating time. We encourage you to check out our Friends and Family page for some suggestions on where to go next.
13. I see that you have an Advisory Board. How do I join?
Our multidisciplinary Advisory Board is comprised of impacted family members, and professionals whose work overlaps with child fatality. Our Board provides critical guidance, insight, and support in strengthening and expanding our Center’s mission. If you’re interested in learning more about our Advisory Board, please contact us.
14. Do you accept donations?
Yes, our Center could not exist without the generosity and philanthropy of our supporters. You can find out more about making a donation to the Center here.