Resilient Family program

Comprehensive Support for Families of Fallen Heroes

Losing a first responder or service member changes everything. The Resilient Family Foundation has three core programs that help us honor the loved ones of local heroes in New York. Grief counseling, socialization groups and events, and childcare services create spaces where healing and hope can come together.

Become a Member
A woman and girl smiling and interacting with a firefighter inside a fire station, with the girl holding a small dog.

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Who we serve

* Who we serve

Our programs are available to widows, widowers, and children of:

FDNY personnel (line of duty and off duty)

NYPD officers (line of duty and off duty)

Military service members (line of duty and off duty)

All counseling and community programs are provided at no cost to families.

Our core programs

  • Led by licensed professionals and trained facilitators specializing in bereavement support, our 2-hour sessions meet twice per month to promote healing and shared experiences. 

    Both widows/widowers and children are welcome to enjoy dinner and free on-site childcare for younger children not participating. Parents and children meet separately in different rooms to focus on age-appropriate discussions of grief and loss. 

    Counseling for widows can include topics such as: processing loss, solo parenting strategies, financial transitions, identity, supporting children through grief, managing triggers and holidays, finding hope and resilience.

  • To celebrate the community and friendship that the Resilient Hope Foundation curates, we host 2+ hour public events once a month. Children and parents connect in a space that is not centered around grief with those who truly understand. We gather to embrace the hope of a new day and support children as they try to be kids. 

    At these events, you can expect: play spaces, inflatables, face painting, arts & crafts, interactive activities, food, music, and time for parents to connect informally.

  • Our goal is to make returning to work, attending school, or attending therapy less of an obstacle. As a single-parent facing childcare costs of $5-20k+ annually, many find these tasks can feel insurmountable. 

    But with the help of our partner L&A Babysitting Inc, the Sitter Network is ready to make childcare more accessible. The Sitter Network offers fully vetted caregivers with an understanding of first-responder culture and a sliding scale pricing structure based on income and family size. With flexibility for both regular and on demand childcare, you know you can rely on them for even the most irregular schedules. 

    Two Service Options:

    • Weekly Families: Structured, recurring care with scheduling support for parents returning to work or school

    • General Families: On-demand care for irregular needs like appointments, therapy sessions, or personal time

    Monthly subsidized hours available to help families afford the care they need to rebuild their lives.

Why these programs matter

Young widows and widowers of first responders often face sudden loss that comes with financial strain, isolation, and childcare barriers that can isolate them from social groups. 

The Resilience Hope Foundation works to build support back up through specialized grief support and a broader community.

FAQs

Is there a cost for grief counseling and community events?

No. All counseling sessions and community events are completely free. We even provide dinner at support group meetings.

How does subsidized childcare work?

Childcare is provided on a sliding scale based on your income and family size. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and needs.

How often do groups meet?

We currently host Zoom support groups and plan to expand gradually to in-person events. Support groups are offered twice a month, and community events are planned about once a month. You’re welcome to attend as much or as little as feels right for your family.

What ages are children's programs appropriate for?

We serve children of all ages with age-appropriate activities and counseling. Younger children who aren't ready for counseling groups have supervised childcare during parent sessions.

What if my loss wasn't line of duty?

We support families regardless of whether the loss occurred on or off duty. Your grief and your family's needs are equally important.

Can I join even if my loss was years ago?

Absolutely. Grief doesn't have a timeline, and community support is valuable at any stage of your journey.

Is childcare available for all events?

Yes! On-site childcare is provided during grief counseling sessions, and all community events are family-friendly with activities for children.