Resources for Jewish Families in Grief in Los Angeles

Grieving the loss of a loved one is a profound experience, and in Jewish tradition, there are many community resources dedicated to providing support and guidance during this time. For Jewish families in Los Angeles, the following organizations and services offer assistance with funeral arrangements, mourning practices, and ongoing grief support, ensuring that families are not alone in their journey.

Chevra Kadisha (Jewish Burial Society)

The Chevra Kadisha, or Jewish Burial Society, provides sacred burial services according to Jewish customs and laws. They perform the taharah (ritual washing and purification of the body), arrange for a shomer (watcher) to stay with the deceased, and coordinate with local funeral homes to ensure a proper Jewish burial. In Los Angeles, several synagogues and community groups offer Chevra Kadisha services. Here are a few organizations that can assist:

• Chevra Kadisha of Los Angeles: Serving families across the city, this organization follows traditional Jewish burial practices, offering compassionate and respectful care during a difficult time.
• Hebrew Burial Society of Los Angeles: Assists with all aspects of Jewish burial, including coordination with funeral homes, taharah, and shmira (guarding) services.
• Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles

The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles offers a variety of resources for families dealing with loss, including counseling referrals, financial assistance, and community connections. Their staff can guide families to grief support groups, bereavement counseling, and other essential services.

Grief and Bereavement Support Groups

Several Jewish organizations in Los Angeles provide grief support groups specifically for Jewish families, helping them process their emotions in a supportive, faith-based environment. These groups are facilitated by experienced counselors or rabbis and offer both group and individual support.

• Our House Grief Support Center: Provides support for individuals dealing with the loss of a loved one, including programs specifically for Jewish families. The center offers grief support groups, individual counseling, and workshops.
• Jewish Family Service Los Angeles (JFSLA): JFSLA offers grief counseling, bereavement support groups, and other resources for individuals coping with loss, with culturally sensitive programs for the Jewish community.
• Local Synagogues and Rabbinical Support

Many synagogues in Los Angeles have rabbis or support staff dedicated to helping families in mourning. They can provide guidance on Jewish customs like shiva (the week of mourning), kaddish (mourner’s prayer), and other rituals that honor the deceased. Local synagogues can also connect families with community members who may offer additional support, including meals, companionship, and prayer.

The Jewish Burial Network

The Jewish Burial Network offers resources to educate families on Jewish burial practices, customs, and cemetery guidelines. They provide articles, videos, and consultations on everything from selecting a burial site to understanding the significance of the kaddish. The network can also refer families to local Jewish cemeteries and services that align with their customs and beliefs.

Chai Lifeline

Chai Lifeline is a Jewish organization providing emotional support to families dealing with loss, particularly in cases of illness. They offer a range of services for grieving families, including grief counseling, therapeutic programs, and community-based support to help individuals process their grief and rebuild their lives.

These resources offer meaningful support, rooted in Jewish tradition and community, to help families navigate the journey of grief. If you are in need of further assistance, reach out to your local synagogue or one of the above organizations for additional guidance and support.