BC Bereavement Helpline

LATEST NEWS

Part-time Program Coordinator Position Available

The part-time Program Coordinator will work 21 hours a week with the Executive Director and be responsible for the maintenance of the programs of BCBH and BC Victims of Homicide including operations of the Helpline, Helpline volunteer recruitment and training, coordination of grief support groups, training programs, educational presentations, onsite and remote supervision of Helpline volunteers and general administrative duties. Ability and interest to answer the Helpline calls and provide compassionate listening and referrals is required.  Please CLICK HERE for more information. 

Loss and Grief is Universal

Our new BCBH video highlights that even in grief there is a common thread of humanity, with the overarching message that You are Not Alone.

We are here to help. Contact us if you’re dealing with grief or loss by phone at 604-738-9950, toll-Free 1-877-779-2223 or by email at contact@bcbh.ca.

If you’d like to donate or help please CLICK HERE or email contact@bcbh.ca.

Thank You For Your Support! 

The BC Bereavement Helpline relies on government grants, community grants and private donations to deliver its services. Please consider a donation towards additional programming and support for the BCBH.

Make a donation to the BC Bereavement Helpline in the  month of June and BCBH will be entered for a chance to win $20,000 through the CanadaHelps June Great Canadian Giving Challenge.

The COVID-19 Pandemic

The BC Bereavement Helpline would like to address the grief that is impacting communities on many fronts as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. Many people are feeling deep grief and loss over the death of their loved ones due to cancer, heart disease, substance use and many other causes. Unfortunately, they are also feeling the loss of their ability to grieve those loved ones in the way they would wish. Because of Covid-19, extended family and friends cannot be invited to attend funerals. The bereaved are not even allowed to hug their grieving loved ones. 

This crisis has led to many secondary losses such as daily routine, a sense of connection, job security, social gatherings, family gatherings, as well as immediate and long-terms goals. The future has become largely unknown and unknowable. Now, more than ever, we need the support of our community. 

At the best of times a death can feel isolating, but even more so during Covid-19. Fortunately, community members are stepping up to support bereaved individuals. For instance, funeral homes are starting to live stream services. An increase in our volunteer numbers is another sign of the community’s desire to help.

The loss of security, predictability, and even life is hitting everyone hard. Let us remember to be gentle, to connect meaningfully with one another, and to care for our hearts however they may be grieving in these very trying times. And remember that if you need us, the BC Bereavement Helpline is here for you.  

Throughout the pandemic our Helpline has been open Monday – Friday, 9am to 5pm. Our trained volunteers and staff are available to provide compassionate listening or to refer telephone/virtual support options available in your community.

Please call 604-738-9950, toll-free at 1-877-779-2223 or by email to contact@bcbh.ca.

With deep care for all,
From the BC Bereavement Helpline.

Grief in the Time of COVID - An Educational Video

Please let us know what you thought of this video. Please fill out this short 5 Question Survey: https://s.surveyplanet.com/UL22A9mJdb

We wish to thank the Sovereign Order of St. John Jerusalem, Vancouver Commandery for their support.

Sometimes we don't know what exactly to say to a friend or loved one experiencing a loss.

Here's a guide with comments which grievers find helpful following a loss.