Mount Laurel, NJ – For those dealing with the loss of a child, the grief can be overwhelming and feel deep and enduring. During such difficult times, it is crucial to be surrounded by a supportive environment of those experiencing similar feelings to foster a space for healing – and hope for the future.

To help South Jersey parents who have suffered this kind of loss, specifically of an adult child, Samaritan is unveiling a new online support group this March – The Holding Space.

The Holding Space is a complimentary, 8-week support group designed to provide a safe, welcoming space for grieving parents who have experienced the loss of an adult child. Each 90-minute session is led by professional bereavement specialists dedicated to furthering the healing process and honoring the life of the adult child who has passed.

“No parent should have to deal with the loss of a child, no matter their age,” says Kimberly Rumaker, MSS, LCSW, Manager of Social Work and Counseling Services at Samaritan. “Through The Holding Space, we wanted to create a community for parents to feel supported as they journey through their healing process – we do this by encouraging mutual sharing, the exploration of feelings and embracing change, all in a safe, supportive space to help parents look toward the future.”

The initial session in this 8-week online support group is scheduled for Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 6 p.m. Pre-registration is required by calling the Samaritan Center for Grief Support at (856) 596-8550 or e-mailing CFGcounseling@SamaritanNJ.org.  

The Samaritan Center for Grief Support, a member of the Samaritan family of services, offers a number of complimentary services for those seeking support, focusing on unique emotional needs and circumstances. The Center’s team of dedicated professionals works tirelessly to explore new, creative ways of providing both one-on-one counseling and group support via telephone and other virtual platforms.

For an updated schedule and additional information on support groups being offered by Samaritan in 2023, visit: https://samaritannj.org/resources/grief-support-groups-south-nj/.