About Us

BFO is a self-help organization for bereaved families

We are a self-help organization for bereaved families. Interested people who have suffered the pain of death and loss are trained by professionals to facilitate small discussion groups and provide one-to-one support. We help families accept the reality of their loss, rediscover the meaning of life, and live comfortably with memories of their child or loved one. We also help the public and the health care profession become aware of the special needs of bereaved families.

Bereaved Families of Ontario - Ottawa Region - is a registered non-profit organization. It is governed by a Board of Directors and receives the guidance of professional consultants and an Advisory Committee of Health Care Professionals.

Bereaved Families of Ontario was formed by bereaved parents in Toronto in 1978 in order to share their insights and experiences with other grieving families and to lend them support as they restore a balance to their lives. It is our experience that the people who truly understand the death of a child or loved one are those who have experienced the same tragedy. In Ottawa, we employ a three-quarter time Program Coordinator. There are now 18 affiliates across Ontario.

We provide small discussion groups for:

• Parents
  • Sudden Death
  • Long term illness
  • Infant Death, Stillbirth, miscarriage, termination of pregnancy
• Children / Teens / Young Adults
• Survivors of Suicide
• Families of Murder Victims
• Death of a Parent / Sibling / Friend
• Widows / Widowers

Additionally, we hold a monthly Support and Share night, have a lending library, and provide education through guest speakers, our Program Coordinator, and community outreach. We also have a Quarterly Newsletter.