The Phoebe Joan Foundation

The Phoebe Joan Foundation was established in 2021 to honour the memory of Phoebe Joan, who was stillborn at 39 weeks gestation in 2011. The Foundation emerged from the profound impact of Phoebe’s passing on her family and community, aiming to transform grief into positive action by supporting projects that improve outcomes for children and families affected by loss and hardship. It is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission and focuses on fostering resilience and hope through compassionate support and funding.

Mission and Vision

The Foundation’s mission is to honour Phoebe’s legacy by providing financial support to initiatives in medical research and parent support, particularly in areas involving stillbirth, infant loss, and children in need. Its vision is to create a world where families, regardless of their background or location, have access to the care and resources necessary to heal and thrive after loss.

Main Objectives

• Fund bereavement support services for families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss, especially in regional and remote communities.
• Support medical research aimed at preventing stillbirth and improving care for affected families.
• Provide financial assistance for children’s participation in sports, recreation, arts, and education.
• Collaborate with community groups, charities, and healthcare providers to expand the reach and impact of support services.

Benefiting Groups

• Bereaved parents and families who have experienced stillbirth, neonatal loss, or termination for medical reasons after 16 weeks.
• Children in need who require financial support to access opportunities in sports, arts, and education.
• Regional and remote communities where access to specialised bereavement and support services is limited.

Services and Activities

• Bereavement support delivered through partnerships such as the Phoebe Joan Project with Red Nose Australia, offering one-on-one care from hospital discharge through subsequent pregnancies.
• Online and phone-based counselling by Bereavement Support Workers with lived experience of baby loss, ensuring empathetic and expert assistance.
• Funding for research participation and development of resources to guide bereaved parents in contributing to stillbirth research.
• Financial grants to support children’s involvement in extracurricular activities that promote wellbeing and inclusion.