2026 Fiscal Year Impact Report
Providing Help to our Grieving Commuity
Every year, thousands of Missouri children and families face profound loss.
In Missouri, 139,000 children (1 in 10) will experience the death of a parent or sibling before age 18. By age 25, that number grows to 327,000.
The need for grief support is clear. In Fiscal Year 2026, Lost & Found Grief Center responded to this need, providing help, hope, and healing for today and years to come.
You matter in the grief journey of your students. And you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Professional Grief Support Changes Lives
During Fiscal Year 2026, 668 individuals participated
in professional grief support groups at Lost & Found Grief Center in Springfield.
Additionally, 112 children and adults benefited from Individual Grief Counseling at Lost & Found.
241 Community members received grief support training in fiscal year 2026
70% of parents felt better equipped to navigate their grief
Before participants begin grief group support, we ask them to complete a survey to gauge where they are on their grief journey. Throughout the year, we collect additional surveys to better understand their experience. Below are the results of Lost & Found’s FY 2026 survey data, showing how kids, teens, and adults found help, hope, and healing during their time at Lost & Found.
Resources & Data
Additional Grief Support Resources
- Up to 50% of bereaved siblings and 40% of bereaved parents experience ongoing grief that can interfere with daily life, highlighting the importance of family-centered grief support.
- 25% of youth under the age of 18 who die by suicide are bereaved
- Source: https://judishouse.org/childhood-grief-in-america/
- Source: https://www.dougy.org/articles/the-need-for-grief-support-among-children-teens-and-young-adults-is-on-the-rise
- Unsupported grief costs employers up to $225 billion annually
- Source: https://www.fastcompany.com/91566723/grief-has-entered-the-workplace-heres-what-leaders-can-do
FAQs
If you’re wondering what support looks like or where to begin, allow us to provide answers to common questions.
What should I say to a grieving student?
Simple, honest acknowledgment goes a long way. You don’t have to have the perfect words. Saying, “I’m so sorry about your loss. I’m here for you” is a meaningful start. Contact us for additional guidance and resources.
How do I refer a student to Lost & Found Grief Center?
Reach out to our office, and we will walk you through the process. We welcome referrals from schools and are happy to connect with counselors directly.