The Kolibris Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization, was established in 2025 by Allie and Ben Butanis to compassionately support families enduring the profound loss of miscarriage, stillbirth, or early infant loss, offering assistance and resources to help them navigate their time of crisis.

After being married nearly 15 years, we were extremely excited to welcome our firstborn into the world only to find out, after 21 healthy weeks in utero, we shockingly and unexpectedly lost our son, Elijah.

On August 30, 2024, we welcomed Elijah into the world. For only a few precious moments, we were able to hold him; now, we cradle him in our hearts.

The word kolibris is Lithuanian for hummingbird. A few days after saying goodbye to Elijah at the hospital, Allie went outside to sit on the porch. While she was there, a hummingbird flew close, offered comfort for a several seconds, then flew away. Now, these visits serve as a reminder of our son; brief, beautiful, and present, then off to the next adventure.

The pain of loss is not just deep—it can be isolating. In the aftermath, we discovered a harsh reality: most families who are blindsided by such tragedy do not have a roadmap through the heartache. The days that follow are filled with impossible decisions and overwhelming emotions, while the world simply goes on. Many never receive the help they desperately need: counseling, support, or answers to basic questions. Too often, the resources to heal—and even to honor lost lives—are missing.

The Kolibris Foundation offers steadfast support to families facing miscarriage, stillbirth, or early infant loss—helping them navigate through the rawness of grief. We provide compassionate answers, resources, patient advocacy, and, when needed, financial help for counseling and medical support.

“When I leave, I'm gonna go out like Elijah
With a whirlwind to fuel my chariot of fire
And when I look back on the stars
It'll be like a candlelight in Central Park
And it won't break my heart to say goodbye.”

- Rich Mullins