Whether you attend the funeral or not, you may still want to give someone a condolence gift to let someone know you are thinking of them. It doesn’t need to be expensive. In fact, sometimes the smaller, more thought-out gifts or gifts of service are the most appropriate. Think about the occasion and sensibilities to avoid appearing thoughtless about a loved one’s grief. Whether or not you decide to send a gift, a sympathy card is a great option as well to show you care.
When Should You Send a Gift?
Although the ideal time to send a sympathy gift is as soon as possible after the funeral, it’s never too late. If weeks or months have passed, you can still send or bring something to a loved one to show that you’ve been thinking of them.
What Type of Gift is Appropriate?
If you know the person well, you can give anything you think they would like. Food is generally a safe bet, as long as you know their preferences. Before you spend a fortune at the florist, find out if flowers are acceptable to the family. Some cultures and religions frown upon flowers during a time of mourning. You can also give a donation to a charity in honor of the deceased. Other comforting items may be a photo album, frame, or keepsake box to hold mementos. If you have a picture or something special that you know the person will love, by all means, add it.
Who Should Receive a Sympathy Gift?
It is appropriate to send a gift to any member of the family of the deceased or anyone in the immediate family. You may also consider giving something special to a close friend or significant other of the person who passed. If the deceased had a favorite cause or charity, consider donating money or something in memory of your late friend and include that in your sympathy card. After a child loses a family member, something soft to snuggle with will be appreciated. Many children find comfort in stuffed animals and soft blankets. After the loss of a pet, you may want to frame the child’s favorite photo of the animal and give it to them.
Religious Preferences
Before sending a gift, find out what the religious customs and preferences are. For example, while it is appropriate to send flowers or food after a Christian passes, the flowers would not be appropriate for someone of the Jewish faith. If you want to give food to someone who is Jewish, make sure it is kosher. If the person is of faith you’re not familiar with, contact the local church, synagogue, or temple and ask. Most clergy and people who work for the religion will be happy to advise you.
Gift of Money
Although it may seem too easy to give money since you don’t have to spend time picking out something special, it is often the most appreciated gift of all. In addition to funeral expenses, there may be other things that the survivors need, particularly if the deceased was a primary or partial breadwinner in the family. If you choose to give money, be discreet and respectful. Put your check or cash inside an envelope with the sympathy card and hand it to the person you want to receive it. If you’re concerned that it won’t be opened right away, you might mention that there is something extra inside.
Gift of Service
The person in mourning might not need a tangible item but may benefit from something you can do. Consider offering to watch children for an afternoon, pick up laundry from the dry cleaners, or do something else that might make their life less stressful. This simple act of kindness might be exactly what they needs.
