WELCOME!

The Bershé Hope Foundation is a non-for profit organization committed to providing resources and support to those struggling with the loss of their spouses/ domestic partners, as well as the children they leave behind. Our mission is to impact and influence the quality of life for families experiencing a loss and to be the stable presence that’s initially needed. Grief is a thief, it steals the breadth of life and leaves devastation behind. Coping with the loss of a spouse is often one of the difficult challenges in life, whether your spouse dies young, old or somewhere in between. The surviving spouse now faces many challenges in coming to terms with a life without their friend and partner. The children that are left behind face a tough journey as well with the loss of their parent. We want to help you cope with your pain and help you find hope for the future. In the days immediately following the loss, you may need everything from advice on finances to a home-cooked meal. We offer hard and soft support, practical and emotional guidance, education, hope, promise… and even that shoulder to cry on. Spouses and domestic partners of all ages, as well as their children, friends and their families will also find comfort and helpful advice for creating and leading fulfilling lives after a painful loss.

What should I do after a loss?

Start small. Breathe. Take the next right step—one hour or one day at a time.

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Take it one hour at a time, one day at a time.
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Try to keep a simple routine—meals, sleep, basic tasks.
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Get rest when you can; short naps help.
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Move your body—gentle walks or light exercise reduce stress and lift mood.
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Eat balanced meals and drink water; go easy on “comfort” junk foods.
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Avoid alcohol, pills, or drugs to numb pain.
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Spend time with people who nurture and recharge you.
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Talk to others who’ve been through similar loss; shared insight helps.
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Express yourself—journal, paint, garden, build, or write.
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Reuse coping strategies that helped you through past challenges.

Stages of Grief & What is Grief?

Stages of Grieving

  • Denial
  • Bargaining
  • Anger
  • Depression
  • Acceptance

There is no fixed order to these stages. You may move back and forth between them, and you might revisit some stages multiple times. Do things when you are ready, not when others think you should be.

What is Grief?

Grief is the natural reaction to losing someone or something important to you. It can affect you emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

  • Emotional: Sadness, anger, guilt, loneliness.
  • Physical: Fatigue, trouble sleeping, nausea, tightness in chest.
  • Spiritual: Questioning faith, searching for meaning.

These reactions are normal. Everyone experiences grief differently — give yourself grace and patience as you heal.

BENO Scholarships

To keep Beno’s belief in education alive, we offer annual book/school-activity scholarships to students who have lost a parent or stepparent. Our goal is to encourage learning and lighten financial stress during a difficult season.

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About “Beno”

“Beno” (Bernard McHerron Sr.) mentored youth and championed education. The scholarship honors his heart for students and community.

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Who Can Apply

Middle/junior high, high-school, or college students who’ve lost a parent/stepparent. Awards help with books or school activities. (Rules may be updated each cycle.)

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How to Apply

Prepare a short essay about your goals and how education helps your healing journey. Include proof of enrollment if requested. Click Apply to get full details.

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