Primary Goal of this Step
Offer meaningful practical and emotional help to the bereaved person before, during, and after the funeral or memorial service.
Important Tasks: Offer Help & Support to the Bereaved
Find out who is coordinating efforts to help, and be in touch with him or her to find out if there are specific ways you can help.
If you’re a close friend or relative, consider offering to be the coordinator.
Offer your support and services
Think about what additional practical things the bereaved needs (food, household/pet issues, child care), and what unusual or unique services you might be able to provide.
Send a gift or make a donation
If you want to send something to the bereaved to show you’re thinking of them, flowers, gift baskets, and food are often appropriate.
Many families ask that donations in the name of the person who died be made to meaningful charities. Giving a donation is a way of showing your support for the family.
