New York Section’s Pregnancy Loss Support Program (PLSP) was founded more than 30 years ago by a group of NCJW NY volunteer leaders, who, through their own experience, understood that it is hard to imagine anything more heartbreaking than the loss of a child. Even the most loving friends and family may not understand a grieving parent’s needs, which can lead to additional isolation and sorrow.  They recognized the need to provide comfort and encouragement for parents who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or new born death through telephone counseling and in-person support groups. Services are available for men and women, straight and gay, single parents and couples, and support groups are unique in that they serve a broad array of bereaved parents from diverse cultural, racial, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Having served several thousand people over the past 30 years, PLSP currently serves approximately 110 families a year.  It is the quintessential NCJW community service program:  professionally trained volunteers are the lifeblood of the program, and its interventions directly improve the quality of life for women, children and families.