Thinking outside the box - Page 2

Greeneyedlady21 · ‎01-06-2015

If there is a caregiver for the person who dies I would suggest something personal for them after some time has passed. Like a gift card to a salon if it's a she, or a movie theater gift card, or a clothing store or website gift card. Anything that's a treat just for them. For me it wouldn't be food but that's just my preference.

I know from experience that the caregiver is often a forgotten person. You never have anything that's just for you.

"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

I am still oxox · ‎03-09-2010

When we were sitting shiva for my Mom we had two huge deli orders delivered and my neighbor brought up a fully catered chicken dinner.

We set out the food for the friends that came to see us and we still had enough food for several days

Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being positive what could go right.

BirkiLady · ‎02-22-2015

I have paid a trusted person (often an off-duty fireman or police officer) to stay at the home of the family during the service. Too often those homes are targets for thiefs who have read the obituarys and know the wealthy families. My family has done this for over 60 years to protect our homes during family funerals in large cities.

Money screams; wealth whispers.

summerwind · ‎09-28-2013

Sounds like you're in the same town. Offer to put up out-of-town friends/family, if you're able.

viva923 · ‎03-12-2010

sent money to charities of family choice. driving a family member who needs transportation at a particular time.

to doctor's, even pick up or taking someone to airport.

Goldengate8361 · ‎01-27-2014

@panda1234 This very unconventional but I gave a work colleague a nice card and a great CD of music that I happen to find particularly comforting and uplifting (it was classical type of music). I think he likes that kind of music anyway, so it made a very personal, sincere “bereavement” gift.

dex · ‎03-09-2010

@Marp that is beautiful and thoughtful advice.

Plaid Pants2 · ‎03-14-2015

When one of my co-workers lost his father several years ago, I got him a $25 gift card to Subway, when he came back to work.

He was single, so that way, he wouldn't have to worry about food for awhile.

shoptilyadropagain · ‎03-19-2014

As someone has mentioned, I've seen food delivered/taken to the funeral home for the family to grab a quick bite to eat in between afternoon and evening calling hours. I've seen deli & cheese platters along with chicken salad, and then there are usually chips & side salads, bread, crackers & condiments and cookies or brownies.

Another non-flower/plant idea is that many flower shops are carrying inspirational or religious chimes & throws along with nice candles, ceramic angels, etc. My work sends the chimes or throw to the funeral home for their employee's families.

I've also waited 3 or 4 weeks and taken the individual out for dinner.

Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit, but Wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.
- Author Unknown

Shanus · ‎05-17-2010

@panda1234 wrote:
Was wondering, other than flowers and homemade food, what have you sent or done for a funeral? I would like to do something that will be useful for the family.

@panda1234 If any younger children are in the family or children as family visitors, the long hours of hanging around get boring. I show up with my coloring books, crayons, waterproof markers and sketch pads & look for a quiet room to take them & give them a break.