About Nagilla
Our Story
Years ago, a small group of women in Lakewood created a support group for others in similar circumstances as themselves, widowhood at a young age.
The organization began with a few members and was given the name “Nagilla”. While technically an acronym for National and Global Intervention for Ladies Living Alone, the name was deliberately chosen to infuse the organization with a sense of positivity and joy.
Over just a few years, the number of participants has grown exponentially. We currently number approximately 300 women residing in Lakewood, as well as hundreds of women across the United States and Canada and beyond. Today, the scope of Nagilla’s activities is breathtaking. Every program and every event is suffused with sensitivity, caring and love. We’ve expanded to include women that have been widowed at any age. With a keen sense of creativity and a finely honed ability to see a void and have it filled, Nagilla spares no effort in finding the means and the wherewithal to provide encouragement, services, respite and support, both emotionally and practically.
Our Mission
- To restore dignity, provide comfort, and help the healing process. To provide a network of support and comradery made up of others who can identify their struggles.
- To empower women to continue as effective heads of household, ensuring their necessities are met.
- To sensitize the community to the unique needs of women who are widowed and their children.
Services
- Annual Retreats
- Twice annual retreats for women and their families.
- Year-Round Activities
- Pool parties in the summer, snow tubing in the winter – and more!
- Support Groups & Counselling
- Monthly support groups with a licensed social worker, as well as group activities and meetups.
- Financial Assistance
- Providing resources for specialized funding for camp, Simchos, and other expenses.
- Helping Hands
- Arrangements for services such as snow plowing and Sukkah-building.
- Special Days Program
- Birthday celebration packages and holiday gifts for women and their children.
- …and more!!!!