FAQ for Families

Is there anything I can do to protect my baby from a sudden unexpected infant death?

Unfortunately, these deaths are not preventable, but you can take steps to reduce the risk.

What are these steps?

Put your baby on its BACK to SLEEP.

Share the room with your baby, but not the bed. Adult beds do not conform to infant safety standards.

Keep your baby’s crib free of toys, crib bumpers, pillows, and quilts.

Use sleep sacks instead of blankets to keep your baby warm, and dress the baby appropriately for the temperature.

Keep your baby in a tobacco-free environment at all times.

Why does back sleeping help reduce the risk of SIDS?

Infants who sleep on their stomachs may not be able to raise their heads to get air when they need to.  Placing an infant on its back allows the infant to breathe freely.

 

My little baby has just died. How can you help me?

First, we mail you information about sudden infant death, grief, and loss, and offer our services. These services are free, and completely confidential. One or two days later, we follow up with a compassionate personal telephone call, and again offer you either individual or group counseling at our office.

What does it cost?

    Our services are free of charge.

What if I don't speak English?

    Our staff is bilingual; brochures are available in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, French, and Tagalog.

What times and dates are support groups and how do I find out about them?

         Meets on the second Tuesday of every month from 6:00PM to 7:00PM. Click on the link for the current schedule or call 212 447-2328.

Are the groups only for SIDS?

Our groups are for anyone who has suffered the sudden, unexpected death of an infant or child under three years old.

Can my other children, family members, or friends come?

We welcome parents, grandparents, siblings, caregivers, babysitters, and others close to the family also affected by the death.

My husband wants to come to counseling with me, but doesn't feel comfortable talking in a group. Can you help?

He can join you for couples grief and loss counseling in our office. Just call for an appointment.

Where are you located? How can I get there?

We are in the OCME Building at 520 First Avenue, corner of 30th Street, next to New York University Hospital in Manhattan. Click on the link above for directions. We reimburse families for public transportation.

I need more than just counseling. Can you help?

Our professional staff can refer you to medical, bereavement, mental health, and public assistance services as needed.

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