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At the time of death, families may need help quickly: contacting a funeral home, finding a chevra kadisha, arranging shmira, navigating hospital release, understanding burial practices, or supporting mourners.
NASCK — National Association of Chevra Kadisha
A searchable directory of Orthodox chevros kadisha across North America, plus guidance on a halachic living will and on death, burial, and mourning, and 24-hour assistance. The fastest way to find the right local burial society.
Misaskim
24/7 assistance at the time of death: coordination with hospitals and authorities, care of the deceased, vigil (shmira), and support for mourners, including shiva needs.
Chesed Shel Emes
Recovery and dignified preparation of remains, including in traumatic or complex deaths.
Hebrew Free Burial Association
Traditional Jewish burial at no cost for those without family or means in the New York area.
Before you use these resources
In an emergency, call your local emergency number (911 in the U.S.) or your community Hatzalah.
These organizations are independent and are not operated by or formally affiliated with JMAR or the Jewish Physicians Network. We list them for educational and informational purposes. Coverage areas vary — some serve one city or hospital, others operate nationally or in Israel — so confirm scope and availability directly with each organization.
Small delays or miscommunications can feel especially painful in this moment.
A chevra kadisha is a Jewish burial society that prepares the deceased for burial (taharah) and keeps vigil (shmira). For hospital staff, JMAR’s guide After the Death of a Jewish Patient explains how to communicate respectfully and preserve dignity while following hospital policy and law.
Related JMAR resources
- After the Death of a Jewish Patient
- Halachic Guidance for Medical and End-of-Life Decisions
- Organ, Kidney, and Marrow Donation in Jewish Law
Suggest a resource
Know a reliable organization, hotline, or patient-support service that belongs here? This directory is growing, and we welcome recommendations.