Losing a child is one of the most devastating things that could happen to a parent; while a tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure, the reality is that many parents do. It is also important to recognize that the death of a child is one of the most significant risk factors for suicide in parents. The death of a young child (1 to 6 years) increases the risk of paternal suicide, and this risk was highest the month after the child’s death. Because of this, it is important to provide parents with the support they need to cope with their loss. In fact, there is a resource individuals can call anytime for help. 

In July 2022, “988” became the new three-digit dialing code to route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. When a person calls, texts, or chats to 988, they are connected to trained counselors who are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. The counselors will listen, understand how their problems affect them, provide support, and connect them to necessary resources. Click here for some locally based resources or the Walk in Sunshine website. There is a section with resources specific to suicide, which includes books, support groups, organizations, articles, and videos. Click here to access our resource library.  

While the loss of a child stays with a parent forever, Walk In Sunshine hopes to raise awareness that resources are available for families who have experienced the passion of their child.   For families residing in New Jersey who have lost a child, we also provide financial assistance to help offset the cost of funeral arrangements. 

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Walk in Sunshine is a Section 501(c) (3) charitable organization based in Westfield, New Jersey. All donations are deemed tax-deductible absent any limitations on deductibility applicable to a particular taxpayer. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your contribution.