Honoring the Forgotten Families
Every year, over 9,000 suicides occur among military personnel, veterans, and first responders. These are not just numbers—they represent lives cut short and families forever changed. The surviving families, often referred to as “The Forgotten Families,” are left to navigate the immense grief, unanswered questions, and profound loss of a loved one who served our country and communities.
The Red Star Foundation is dedicated to ensuring these families are no longer overlooked. We honor their sacrifice, provide compassionate support, and empower them to heal while fostering a sense of community and resilience.
Who Are the Forgotten Families?
The Forgotten Families include the parents, spouses, children, siblings, friends, and loved ones left behind by those who have died by suicide. They face unique challenges, including:
Stigma: Many families feel isolated due to the lingering stigma around mental health and suicide.
Unanswered Questions: The complex emotions of grief are often compounded by feelings of guilt, anger, and confusion.
Lack of Support: Many families do not have access to the resources or community support they need to process their loss and move forward.
How the Red Star Foundation Supports the Forgotten Families
The Red Star Foundation is committed to standing beside the Forgotten Families every step of the way, providing programs, resources, and initiatives designed to honor and uplift them.
Honoring Their Loved Ones
Veterans Suicide Awareness Ribbon: A symbol of remembrance and advocacy, distributed to families and supporters to honor those lost to suicide.
Memorial Programs: Hosting events to pay tribute to the lives and sacrifices of their loved ones, ensuring their stories are not forgotten.
Providing Grief and Bereavement Support
Peer-to-Peer Networking: Connecting families with others who have experienced similar losses, fostering understanding and mutual support.
Counseling Resources: Access to grief counselors and support groups to help families navigate their emotional journey.
Building Awareness and Reducing Stigma
Suicide Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the impact of suicide and the importance of mental health support for military, veterans, and first responders.
Advocacy for Change: Pushing for better mental health care and suicide prevention programs to prevent future tragedies.
Offering Training and Education
Survivor Advocacy Training: Empowering family members to become advocates for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Educational Workshops: Helping families understand the mental health challenges faced by their loved ones and how to support others in similar situations.
A Community of Hope and Healing
The Red Star Foundation believes that no family should face this journey alone. Through our nationwide peer network and community-building events, we create safe spaces where families can connect, share, and heal. Together, we are fostering a culture of compassion, understanding, and resilience.
Join Us in Honoring the Forgotten Families
The Forgotten Families deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. By joining the Red Star Foundation’s mission, you can help us:
– Provide critical resources and support to grieving families.
– Advocate for improved mental health care and suicide prevention.
– Honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed.
Let’s ensure the stories of these families and their loved ones are never forgotten. Together, we can make a lasting impact.