For Families
What is Because They Lived?
Because They Lived is a nonprofit organization created to provide long-term remembrance and gentle support to families who have experienced the loss of a child. We exist to ensure that children are remembered and families continue to feel seen, supported, and cared for—long after the initial loss.
Who is Because They Lived for?
Because They Lived is for families who have lost a child at any age. It is also for volunteers and supporters who believe that grief does not end with time, and that continued compassion can make a meaningful difference.
How does Because They Lived support families?
We provide intentional acts of remembrance, such as handwritten cards and notes, to remind families that their child matters and is remembered. These gestures are simple, gentle, and designed to offer comfort without expectation.
When does support begin, and how long does it last?
Support can begin at any point after a child’s death and is intended to continue long-term. There is no timeline for grief, and we believe care should not be limited by one.
Is there a cost for families to receive support?
No. All remembrance and support offered to families is provided at no cost.
Do I need to share details about my child to participate?
No. Families are only asked to share what they are comfortable sharing. We respect that every grief journey is personal, and participation is always optional.
Do I need to sign up every year?
No. Once you sign up, there is nothing you need to renew annually. Support is intended to be ongoing, and we will continue to remember your child without requiring repeated registration.
Can I sign up after a stillbirth?
Yes. Families who have experienced a stillbirth are welcome to sign up. We recognize and honor every child, and we understand that the loss of a child at any stage carries profound grief.
Can I sign up after a miscarriage?
At this time, we are not able to offer remembrance support following miscarriage. We recognize that miscarriage is a profound and deeply personal loss, and we honor the grief families experience. As our organization grows, we hope to expand our services to support more families in the future.
Can I sign up multiple times if I have lost multiple children?
Yes. Families who have lost more than one child may sign up for each child. Each child is honored individually, and families are welcome to share only what they feel comfortable sharing.
How is my family’s privacy protected?
We take privacy seriously. Personal information is used only for the purpose of providing support and is never shared publicly or sold. Volunteers receive only the information necessary to fulfill their role.
What if I’m not ready to receive support yet?
That is completely okay. Grief has no timeline. Families are welcome to reach out whenever—or if—receiving support feels right.
About Remembrance & Support
What is a remembrance card?
A remembrance card is a handwritten note created with care to honor a child’s life and acknowledge a family’s ongoing grief. These notes are meant to offer comfort, not advice or expectations.
Who writes the cards?
Cards are written by volunteers who approach this work with compassion and respect. Many have experienced loss themselves; all are committed to caring for families with sensitivity.
How often are cards sent?
Cards may be sent on significant dates or at intervals intended to provide ongoing remembrance. The frequency (1-2 cards a year) is designed to be supportive, not overwhelming.
What occasions do you acknowledge?
Occasions will typically include birthdays, holidays, angel anniversaries or other meaningful times. Families may indicate preferences, and all participation remains optional.
Can families opt out or pause support?
Yes. Families may pause, adjust, or discontinue support at any time. We honor each family’s needs and boundaries.
For Volunteers
Who can volunteer with Because They Lived?
Anyone with a compassionate heart and a desire to support grieving families may volunteer. You do not need to have experienced child loss to participate.
What does volunteering involve?
Volunteering typically involves writing remembrance cards or assisting with outreach and support efforts. Time commitments are flexible and designed to be manageable.
Do volunteers receive guidance or training?
Yes. Volunteers are provided with guidance on trauma-informed, respectful communication. Emotional well-being is important to us, and support is available as needed.
For Donors & Supporters
How are donations used?
Donations support materials, postage, volunteer coordination, and outreach efforts that allow us to continue providing long-term remembrance to families.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Because They Lived is currently in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Until approval is granted, donations are not tax-deductible.
Is Because They Lived a 501(c)(3) organization?
Because They Lived is currently in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
Can I give in honor or memory of a child?
Yes. Donations may be made in honor or in memory of a child, and we are grateful for the trust placed in us through these gifts.
Contact
How can I contact Because They Lived?
You can reach us through the contact form on our website or through our email becausetheylived.info@gmail.com. We strive to respond with care and thoughtfulness.