M.E.N.D. (Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death)
M.E.N.D. is a non-profit organization that reaches out to families who have suffered the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or early infant death. We publish free bi-monthly newsletters, hold two commemorative ceremonies each year, and host a variety of support groups in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We also have chapters in Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma; including three additional Texas chapters in the Hill Country (Fredericksburg), Houston and Texarkana.
The Houston Texas chapter of MEND meets the third Thursday of each month. These meetings are for women/families who have lost a baby to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. For more information, contact Jaimie Crump at jaimie@mend.org for scheduled session times.
Empty Arms
The Empty Arms Ministry of Denman Avenue Baptist Church is specifically designed to offer comfort and assistance to families who are grieving the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant death. The loss of a child is one of the most devastating events that a family can face. You are not alone. This unique ministry offers hope and healing through Jesus Christ.
How it Began...
In April of 2004, Jill and Jonathan Gerland were blessed with a baby girl, Gracie Beth. In June of that same year, Gracie died as a result of a fatal chromosome disorder called Trisomy 18. Subsequently, she and her husband have endured four miscarriages on their quest to have a family. It was out of these tragedies that the Lord began to instill in Jill a passion to make a difference in other families who are facing similar difficult circumstances. Thus, the Empty Arms Ministry was formed.
Although we don’t understand why these tragedies happen, we cling to God’s promises that are found in His word: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
What We Do...
Care Baskets / Miscarriage Packets
The Empty Arms Ministry Team assembles and delivers baskets containing bereavement support items that we pray will aid in the grieving process. Contact is usually made from area hospitals, funeral homes or simply by word of mouth. Included in the care baskets are items such as a copy of Dr. Jack Hayford’s book, “I’ll Hold You in Heaven” as well as the accompanying journal, a Certificate of Life, a list of resources, in addition to other materials that may help in the difficult days ahead.
Newsletter
The Empty Arms Ministry distributes a quarterly newsletter with information pertaining to the ministry as well as topics dealing specifically with the loss of a pre-born or newborn child. Copies of past and current newsletters can be found on the Empty Arms website.
Prayer Partners
Many volunteers in this ministry have personally experienced pregnancy or infant loss as well. These prayer partners are available to lend support as needed and offer a listening ear on those tough days that undoubtedly will come along. They will diligently lift you and your family up in prayer during a complicated pregnancy or during the bereavement period.
Advocacy
If you or someone you know has been given a poor prenatal diagnosis, our ministry team will help advocate your unique needs to the various entities involved including the medical staff and funeral home.
If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a child, we’d like to help. Please contact Jill Gerland, Empty Arms Coordinator at JillGerland@yahoo.com for more information.
“God blesses those people who grieve. They will find comfort!”
Matthew 5:4 (CEV)Proudly Sponsored By:
