New Program Supports Newark Families Facing Child, Pregnancy Loss

NEWARK, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of a Patch Newark community member. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

In a heartfelt effort to support families who have experienced the unimaginable pain of pregnancy, infant, or child loss, the Beta Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has launched a new community service initiative called "Infanity." The program is dedicated to serving grieving women and families, particularly in low-income communities, by providing comfort, resources, and support during times of profound sorrow.

One of Infanity’s current outreach efforts involves collecting burial outfits for infants, which will be donated to area hospitals and funeral homes. The initiative addresses a critical but often overlooked need for grieving parents who may not have the financial means to prepare for such heartbreaking circumstances.

To further its mission and raise awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month, the chapter hosted a powerful community event titled "Pregnancy, Infant, and Child Loss: A Grief Support Program" at Bethany Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey. The program brought together families, grief counselors, and faith leaders for an afternoon of remembrance, healing, and connection.

The event featured licensed family therapists and grief counseling ministers who offered professional and spiritual support to attendees navigating the complex emotions of loss. The program created a safe space for both women and men to share their experiences—a notable and necessary focus, as many men expressed that their grief is frequently overlooked.

"As men, we’re expected to be strong, but we grieve too," one father shared during the emotional gathering. "Losing a child shattered me, and today was the first time I felt truly seen."

Women also recounted their stories with courage and vulnerability, underscoring the silent grief many mothers carry. For some attendees, the event was their first time publicly sharing their loss—a testament to the welcoming and compassionate environment fostered by the chapter and community leaders.

Beta Alpha Omega Chapter President, Annette Harrell Vick, spoke about the chapter’s commitment to making sure no family suffers in silence.

"Infanity is more than a project—it’s a promise. A promise to show compassion, to provide dignity in moments of devastation, and to lift up families when they feel most alone," the chapter president said. "Our community deserves that."

The chapter plans to continue expanding Infanity with additional grief resources, support group connections, and donation drives in partnership with local health institutions and organizations.

For more information about how to support or donate to Infanity, contact Donna Beck at communityservice@betaalphaomega.org

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is the first African American Greek-lettered sorority, founded in 1908. The Beta Alpha Omega Chapter, chartered in 1934, serves the Greater Newark area through programs of service, sisterhood, and social impact.

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