Josephine Balsamo
Help After Abortion Program Coordinator
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Office of Marriage, Family and Respect Life
Confidential Helpline: 703-841-2504
“The women who come to our ministry are in many different places emotionally. Some have had recent abortions, but others have been struggling with their grief for a very long time. My role is to listen without judgement and to meet them exactly where they are. Women feel very isolated and alone after abortion, so to be able to come alongside them and help them to see that they are not alone is a such a gift. It is a blessing to be able to share the mercy that God has shown to me and to be able to help others find reconciliation, healing and peace. Healed women are some of the holiest women I know.”
Josephine “Jo” Balsamo grew up in Falls Church, Virginia, where she attended Thomas Jefferson High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University. Her professional career took her through various roles, including positions in the food service industry and at a law firm, before she ultimately joined a travel agency.
Jo’s life was transformed when her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. During this time, she met a young priest who brought her mother communion. After her mother passed away, Jo embarked on her own healing journey, which reignited her connection to her faith and led her to Project Rachel Ministry. Reflecting on the experience, Jo says, “Honestly, that retreat, and this ministry, changed my life, saved my life.”
Inspired by the healing retreat, Jo volunteered with the kitchen team for the next Project Rachel Retreat. As nervous as she was on her first retreat, she couldn’t help but notice the simple bean soups on the menu, Being a skilled Italian cook, she decided she would revamp the offering to include a feast of comfort foods and elaborate Italian dishes. Her culinary talents and dedication didn’t go unnoticed, and she continued to volunteer with both the retreat and kitchen teams. Jo’s success and commitment eventually led to a permanent role with Gabriel Project Pregnancy Assistance and Project Rachel Post-Abortion Healing Ministries as Program Coordinator.
She has dedicated over 20 years to serving individuals impacted by abortion, leading more than 40 retreats, healing events, and aftercare gatherings. Her experience also includes presenting at national conferences and training programs focused on post-abortion ministry, along with working closely with ministry volunteers and parish liaisons.