The Gregory Mark Shea II Foundation is dedicated to assisting individuals in need by providing referrals to appropriate support services and guiding them to resources that can help them care for themselves. The foundation focuses on offering resources for Substance Use Disorder (SUD), mental health support, bereavement groups, and crisis helplines. The goal is to better support our community through education and provide real-time statistics specifically for Massachusetts.
The foundation emphasizes harm reduction for all individuals by offering educational programs tailored to new illicit drugs. They continuously strive to expand their resources to provide additional support in similar areas. By doing so, the foundation aims to create a safer and more informed community, promoting well-being and assisting individuals in accessing the help they need.
Support After a Death by Overdose (SADOD)
Support After a Death by Overdose (SADOD) provides resources and compassionate support to individuals and families who have lost a loved one to overdose. SADOD helps survivors connect with others who share similar experiences, offering a sense of community, guidance, and healing. Through various resources, support groups, and educational materials, SADOD strives to empower families and individuals as they navigate the grief and challenges that come with such a loss. Learn More
Bereaved Parents of the USA
Bereaved Parents of the USA offers support, understanding, encouragement, and hope to fellow bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents after the death of their loved one. They provide a safe space where individuals can connect with others who have experienced similar losses, offering a sense of community and compassion during the grieving process. Through their resources and support network, Bereaved Parents of the USA aims to help families navigate the challenges of bereavement and find healing and strength in their journey. Learn More
Center for Loss & Transition
The Center for Loss & Transition is dedicated to helping people who are grieving and those who care for them. They provide a range of resources, counseling services, and educational programs to support individuals in their grief journey. With a focus on compassion and understanding, the center aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace and learn coping strategies. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, a loss through divorce or separation, or any other form of significant loss, the Center for Loss & Transition is there to provide guidance and support. Learn More
Coalition to Support Grieving Students
The Coalition to Support Grieving Students offers valuable educational resources for school personnel on how to address and respond to the death of a student, teacher, or staff member. They also provide information on supporting seriously ill students with potentially life-limiting conditions, helping classmates understand and cope with grief. By equipping schools with the knowledge and tools to navigate grief and loss, the coalition strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment for grieving students. Their resources promote empathy, resilience, and understanding among school communities, ensuring that no student feels alone in their grief. Learn More
Compassionate Friends
The Compassionate Friends is an organization that provides highly personal comfort, hope, and support to every family experiencing the death of a son, daughter, sibling, or grandchild. Through their resources, support groups, and online communities, they aim to help grieving families navigate their unique grief journey. The Compassionate Friends believes in the power of shared experiences and the healing that comes from connecting with others who have gone through similar losses. By fostering a sense of understanding and support, they help families honor and remember their loved ones while finding strength and resilience in their grief. Learn More
Courageous Parents Network
The Courageous Parents Network is a non-profit organization and educational platform that provides orientation, empowerment, and companionship to families and healthcare providers caring for children with serious illnesses. Through their resources, videos, and expert-led discussions, they offer practical guidance and emotional support to families navigating the challenges of caring for a child with a serious illness. The network aims to empower parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals by providing them with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for these children. Learn More
Dougy Center
The Dougy Center is a place where individuals can find support, resources, and connection before and after a death. Whether someone is grieving or helping someone who is grieving, the Dougy Center offers a range of resources, including personalized toolkits, tip sheets, activities, and podcasts. Their goal is to provide individuals with the necessary tools to navigate grief and find ways to cope and heal. By offering a compassionate and understanding environment, the Dougy Center helps individuals on their grief journey, promoting healing and resilience. Learn More
Grief.com
Grief.com is dedicated to helping everyone deal with the often unknown terrain that comes along with all kinds of grief. Through education, information, and other helpful resources, they aim to make the challenging road of grief a little easier to navigate. Whether someone is grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a job, or any other significant loss, Grief.com provides valuable insights and support. By offering guidance, tools, and a compassionate community, they strive to empower individuals and provide them with the resources they need to heal and find hope in their grief journey. Learn More
Hope Floats
Hope Floats is a bereavement and educational center that offers support for adults, children, teens, and their families who are grieving, dealing with illness, or facing other life challenges. Through counseling services, support groups, educational programs, and specialized workshops, Hope Floats provides a nurturing environment for individuals to heal and find solace. They aim to create a community where individuals can connect with others who have experienced similar losses and receive the support they need to navigate their grief. With a focus on compassion and understanding, Hope Floats helps individuals find strength and resilience in the midst of adversity. Learn More
Joanna’s Place
Joanna’s Place is a non-profit organization serving South Shore Massachusetts families. They are dedicated to promoting resilience in children who are facing some of life’s most stressful events. Joanna’s Place provides free tools, support, and resources to heal, grow, and strengthen families. Their programs and services focus on empowering children and families to overcome challenges and build a brighter future. By offering a range of supportive resources, educational materials, and community connections, Joanna’s Place strives to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in need. Learn More
SADOD (Support After a Death by Overdose)
SADOD provides resources, information, and assistance to people throughout Massachusetts who have been affected by the death of someone they care about from a substance-use-related cause. Their focus is on increasing the capacity and effectiveness of peer grief support for bereaved individuals, frontline care providers, and people in recovery or struggling with drug use. SADOD aims to provide a supportive community where individuals can find solace, share their experiences, and receive guidance on their grief journey. Through their resources and programs, they strive to promote healing and resilience for those impacted by substance use-related deaths. Learn More
The Children’s Room
The Children’s Room creates safe and supportive communities so that no child, teen, or family must grieve alone. They offer a range of programs and services designed to support children and families through their grief journey. Whether through peer support groups, counseling, or expressive arts activities, The Children’s Room provides a nurturing environment where children and families can find understanding, healing, and hope. Their compassionate and dedicated staff and volunteers are committed to helping children and families navigate the challenges of grief and build resilience for the future. Learn More
South Shore Peer Recovery
South Shore Peer Recovery provides peer support for individuals and families struggling with substance use disorders. They offer support groups, discussion groups, and resources to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery. The organization aims to create a supportive community where individuals can share their experiences, find encouragement, and access the resources they need to achieve and maintain recovery. Through their peer-led initiatives, South Shore Peer Recovery promotes hope, resilience, and long-term recovery for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. Lean More
The Sun Will Rise Foundation
The primary focus of The Sun Will Rise Foundation is to provide free peer grief support for those who have experienced the devastating death of someone they care about due to substance use (drug/alcohol) or overdose. The foundation recognizes the profound impact that grief can have on individuals and families in these circumstances, and their mission is to offer care, compassion, community, understanding, and support. Through their peer grief support programs, The Sun Will Rise Foundation aims to provide a safe space where individuals can share their stories, find solace in connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences, and receive guidance on their healing journey. By promoting empathy, resilience, and community, they strive to bring hope and support to those affected by substance use-related losses. Learn More
The Mass Help Line
The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) serves as a vital resource to connect individuals directly to clinical help when and where they need it. Whether someone is unsure of the type of help or treatment they require, the BHHL is available to guide them. The help line operates around the clock, providing support and assistance to individuals seeking mental health resources and services. By offering immediate access to clinical help and expert guidance, the BHHL plays a crucial role in ensuring individuals receive the appropriate care and support for their mental health needs. Learn More
Massachusetts Mental Health Hotlines
With Massachusetts being the third-most populated state in the country, it is concerning to know that a significant number of adults in the state suffer from serious mental illnesses. Despite having a relatively high number of mental healthcare providers per capita, a significant portion of adults still do not receive treatment for their mental health. The Massachusetts Mental Health Hotlines aim to bridge this gap by providing accessible and confidential resources to connect individuals with skilled and trained mental health professionals. Whether through phone calls, text lines, or online resources, these hotlines offer support, information, and guidance to those in need. Learn More
The William James INTERFACE Referral Service
The William James INTERFACE Referral Service is a mental health and wellness helpline available to residents of participating communities in Massachusetts. Their confidential referral service connects callers with licensed mental health providers from their extensive database. The service takes into account the location, insurance, and specialty needs of the caller, matching them with appropriate providers within an average of two weeks. By providing personalized and timely referrals, the INTERFACE Referral Service helps individuals access the mental health support they require. With a focus on confidentiality and quality care, the service aims to improve access to mental health services and support well-being in the community. Learn More
988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline serves as a lifeline for individuals who may be contemplating suicide, concerned about a friend or loved one, or simply in need of emotional support. Available 24 hours a day, including holidays, across the United States, the Lifeline network offers a compassionate and confidential space for individuals to seek help. In addition to phone calls, the hotline also provides the option of chatting via text message for those who may prefer it. By offering immediate and accessible support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline aims to save lives and provide critical assistance during times of crisis. Learn More
Psychology Today
Psychology Today is the world’s largest online destination for mental health and behavioral science information. Dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of human behavior, Psychology Today offers a wealth of expert-authored articles, resources, and tools. Their mission is to provide accessible and reliable information about psychology and mental health, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and seek appropriate support. Whether someone is looking for information on specific mental health conditions, therapeutic approaches, or self-help strategies, Psychology Today serves as a trusted resource for comprehensive and reliable mental health information. Learn More
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use problems. Through this program, participants learn how to provide initial support to someone in crisis and connect them with appropriate professional help. Mental Health First Aid is available for various settings, including schools, workplaces, and communities, enabling participants to become mental health first responders in their respective environments. By increasing mental health literacy and reducing stigma, Mental Health First Aid empowers individuals to offer support and assistance to those in need. Learn More
Suicide Prevention Crisis Hotlines
Suicide Prevention Crisis Hotlines play a critical role in providing immediate help and support to individuals in crisis. These hotlines are staffed by trained professionals who are available 24/7 to listen, offer guidance, and connect individuals with appropriate resources. By creating a safe and confidential space for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, these hotlines aim to prevent suicide and provide hope and support during difficult times. The hotlines often offer both phone and text options, ensuring accessibility and meeting the diverse needs of those seeking help. Learn More
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is a leading organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. Their helpline is available 24/7 and offers specialized support for LGBTQ+ individuals who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or facing mental health challenges. The Trevor Project aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where young people can seek help and find the support they need. Through their crisis intervention services, online resources, and educational initiatives, they work to prevent suicide and promote mental health among LGBTQ+ youth. Learn More
Trans Lifeline
The Trans Lifeline is a peer support hotline run by and for transgender individuals. Available 24/7, Trans Lifeline offers a confidential space where trans people can seek emotional support, share their experiences, and connect with others who understand their unique challenges. The hotline is staffed by transgender volunteers who provide empathetic listening and assistance to callers. By fostering community and offering support, Trans Lifeline aims to reduce feelings of isolation and provide a lifeline for transgender individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues or contemplating suicide. Learn More
Al-Anon
Al-Anon is a mutual support program for individuals whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking. By sharing their experiences, strength, and hope, Al-Anon members find understanding, encouragement, and support from others who have faced similar challenges. The program follows a set of guiding principles and offers a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their feelings, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. Al-Anon welcomes anyone who has been affected by someone else’s alcoholism, providing a pathway to personal growth, healing, and recovery. Learn More
These organizations and resources play a crucial role in providing support, guidance, and resources to individuals and families in need. By addressing various aspects of grief, mental health, and substance use, they contribute to the well-being and resilience of individuals and communities.
