Parent Connect

Parent Connect is WPRP’s private online community where widowed parents find understanding, connection, and support from others who truly understand life after loss. Connect in the way that feels right for you.

You Don't Have To Walk This Road Alone

Parent Connect is Widowed Parent Relief Project’s private online community for widowed parents across the nation. Whether you're newly widowed, years into your journey, parenting young children, or supporting adult children still living at home, you'll find connection, understanding, and support from people who truly understand.

Smiling woman with curly hair looking at her smartphone while sitting on a gray couch.

A Community That Respects Your Pace

Grief looks different for everyone. Parent Connect is designed to honor that.

Some parents engage actively in conversations and events. Others prefer to quietly read, listen, or access resources. Both are welcome here. There is no pressure to participate in any particular way.

Parent Connect allows parents to engage in the way that feels most comfortable for them, at their own pace.

Upcoming events & Announcements

Guest Speaker - Family Therapist

Sept 21st, Parent Connect will host guest speaker and family therapist, Kelsie Orrico.

Wednesday Wine(d) Down

First Wednesday of every month, meet up with other widowed parents from your couch! Grab a glass of wine or some night tea and wind down with other solo parents weathering a similar storm. Night-time quiet can be hard, so pop in and enjoy some conversation, share some stories, talk fun or talk real - just be you. It's a time to find some company with others who understand the storm of solo parenting. JOIN PARENT CONNECT to access meetup!

Current needs and prayers

See how you can meet a real need, lift up a prayer request, or celebrate an answered prayer with a widowed parent today.

Benefits of parent connect

What Parent Connect Includes

Parent Connect offers flexible, accessible support without expectation or obligation, including:

  • Access to a private, virtual community exclusively for widowed parents
  • Opportunities for peer connection and supportive conversation
  • Topic-specific spaces including Moms Only, Dads Only, dating and merging families, suicide loss survivors, and parenting special needs children
  • Educational resources, informational discussions, and local opportunities
  • Encouragement, shared experiences, and support from others who understand

Who Parent Connect Is For

Parents may join Parent Connect if they meet the following criteria:

  • Were legally married at the time of loss
  • Have dependent children living in the home, including college students or adult children with disabilities
  • Are in any stage of widowhood
  • Live anywhere in the United States

What Parent Connect Includes

Parents may request access to Parent Connect directly through the WPRP website.

To protect the integrity and safety of the community, parents are verified prior to joining. This verification process helps ensure that Parent Connect remains a trusted, protected space exclusively for widowed parents.

How Parent Connect Supports All WPRP Platforms

Parent Connect serves as the shared communication space across WPRP’s platforms. It is where parents receive updates about events, resources, and opportunities, regardless of how they engage with WPRP.

Some parents use Parent Connect as their primary place for connection. Others participate in additional platforms while staying connected through Parent Connect for communication and updates. Parents choose how they engage, with information and support remaining accessible as their needs and circumstances change.

Questions you might have

Who can join Parent Connect?

Parent Connect is open to any widowed parent with dependent children. Whether your loss was recent or years ago, you're welcome here. We serve parents across the country through our virtual groups and online community.

Do I have to share in the group?

Not at all. You can participate as much or as little as you feel comfortable. Some parents share openly from day one. Others listen for months before they're ready to talk. Both are completely okay.

What if I'm not comfortable with groups?

We get it. While our support groups are a core part of Parent Connect, you can also connect one-on-one with other parents through our online community or attend casual social events. We'll help you find the right fit.

Are the groups faith-based?

While WPRP was founded on Christian values and prayer is offered, Parent Connect welcomes widowed parents of all faiths and backgrounds. You'll never be pressured or made to feel uncomfortable about your beliefs.

How long can I participate?

As long as you want. There's no graduation date or time limit. Some parents stay connected for years. This community is yours for as long as you need it.

What's the time commitment?

Whatever you can give. Join weekly groups, check in on the online community when you have a moment, or attend occasional events. There's no required attendance - just consistent support whenever you need it.

Is there childcare available?

Yes! We provide childcare during most in-person events and support groups so you can participate without worry.

I'm a dad. Will I fit in?

Absolutely. We have widowed fathers actively involved in Parent Connect, and we're intentional about creating space where all widowed parents feel welcome and supported.

I am ever thankful!

WPRP has helped me to realize that I am not alone as a young widow with children and that there are lots of people who want to help care for widows. God has been present and working through so many in the WPRP, and I am ever thankful!

DeeDee, WPRP Mom

Smiling woman with three boys in blue Westland Cougars shirts at an indoor event.

The self-care stipend is so necessary and let me have some time to breathe and grieve.

WPRP has made a huge impact on my quality of life while I am trying to pick up the pieces after my husband suddenly passed.

The cleaning and organizing services helped me immensely. The self-care stipend is so necessary and let me have some time to breathe and grieve.

Stephanie, WPRP Mom