Shepherd’s Gate CARE Offers Urgent Support for Grieving Families

UPDATE: Shepherd’s Gate Church in Shelby Township, Michigan, is stepping up to provide urgent, judgment-free support for families dealing with loss and grief, particularly those affected by suicide. The CARE program, led by group leaders who have experienced similar losses, is hosting a special event on November 11, 2023, to help individuals cope with holiday stress and depression.

Cindy DeClark, a group leader who lost her only daughter to suicide 11 years ago, emphasizes the importance of community support. “Loss by suicide is a grief that becomes part of you,” DeClark stated. “Finding others who share this pain makes me feel understood.”

Shepherd’s Gate CARE offers free support groups across nine vital areas, including divorce care, grief share, and a specialized group for parents of LGBTQ+ children. CARE director Venus Graydon confirms, “All group leaders have walked in the shoes of those they support.”

Each Tuesday night, these 13-week programs include free childcare and meals, making them accessible to everyone. Participants can repeat sessions as often as needed, fostering a supportive network. DeClark initially joined the suicide support group and later became a leader herself, demonstrating the program’s transformative power.

“About 70% of attendees are from outside the Shepherd’s Gate Church community,” Graydon noted, highlighting the program’s inclusive nature. Confidentiality is paramount; discussions within CARE groups remain private to create a trusting environment.

Upcoming events, like the special CARE night on November 11, will focus on coping strategies during the challenging holiday season. Group leaders, including DeClark and Jerri Zenoby, who has faced her own losses, are committed to ensuring that participants feel understood and not judged. “It’s crucial to find a support group where you feel safe to express your feelings,” DeClark added.

Zenoby, who leads the grief share class, explained that many attendees are often pressured by family to move on too quickly. “In this group, they find others who understand that grieving takes time,” she said.

The Shepherd’s Gate CARE program is not just about therapy; it’s about building connections. Through shared experiences, participants gain coping skills and emotional resilience. “This isn’t a recruitment for church members,” Graydon emphasized, as the focus remains on authentic support.

With mental health care often inaccessible due to stigma and cost, Shepherd’s Gate CARE provides an approachable alternative. The program aims to make participants feel comfortable enough to share their journey by encouraging them to attend at least three sessions.

For more information on the Shepherd’s Gate Church CARE programs, visit sgatechurch.org. This initiative underscores the urgent need for community support in times of personal crisis, offering hope and healing to those who need it most.