News

Judi’s House Research Spotlighted in ThinkAdvisor

August 17, 2026

A recent ThinkAdvisor article highlighted research from Judi’s House/JAG Institute, conducted in partnership with the New York Life Foundation, revealing a significant gap in Social Security survivor benefits for bereaved children. According to the 2025 Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model County-Level Reports, nearly 45% of eligible children who have experienced the death of a parent are not receiving Social Security survivor benefits, leaving an estimated $15.5 billion in support unclaimed each year.

The article featured insights from Micki Burns, PhD, CEO of Judi’s House/JAG Institute, who emphasized that barriers such as custody challenges, caregiver confusion, and lack of awareness often prevent families from accessing these critical resources. Burns noted that financial advisors and other professionals who support grieving families can play a vital role in connecting children to benefits that may have a lasting impact on their health, well-being, and future stability.

The coverage underscores Judi’s House’s ongoing commitment not only to supporting grieving children and families, but also to advancing research and awareness that drive meaningful change for bereaved youth nationwide.