Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I know that when someone loses a loved one, people usually bring food. But what happens a month later when the food runs out and the family still can't muster up the energy to do anything?

A co-worker's child suddenly died and I want to do something for them in the next month or so. We are not close enough that I can just pop over with a tray of food. I was thinking about sending a gift card for Applebees or something (to get the family out of the house) or even to the movies, but I don't know if there is a protocol to this. We have already sent flowers. I would appreciate opinions.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I personally think this is a great idea. I have lost both of my parents and at their Shiva's we had so much food. After the food and people are gone, its like, what do we do now? I would have loved and appreciated something like that.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

This is so thoughtful. I can't imagine what the family is going through, losing a child. I know when I lost my dad 4 months ago, everyone is there for you in the beginning, but then things settle down. People start to forget and go on with their lives.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I think that is a superb idea. It will let them go somewhere or do something that will take their mind off of things for a bit.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

great idea! I would maybe do something alittle "higher end" in terms of the resturant though- only b/c I am sure they don't want to walk into a place filled with childern and their parents

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I think it's a very thoughtful and good idea.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

i would do some place that does eat in or take out, that way they have the option of staying home if they are not ready for crowds.

I think it's a great idea.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

My good friend from college got me that when my Dad passed away, and we were done sitting shiva, we were thru a lot, I had lost both my parents over a few yrs. It was a real lifesaver and in my opinion a great idea. We ended up going out to dinner with DH, my sister and BIL and then saw a movie- it was a great thing- because it got us out of the house and got our minds on other things even if just a temp distraction.
( The gift card was to Fridays- we did not care if it was to MCDonald's it got us OUT)

Message edited 7/9/2008 9:11:59 PM.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I think a GC to a restaurant is an excellent idea.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

I think that's a great idea. My beloved aunt died a couple of months ago and know my uncle would appreciate something like this. He has so much on his mind, cooking is definitely not one of his priorities.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

Great idea, and very thoughtful of you

Re: Need opinions about a bereavement gift, if you can call it that.

Excellent idea!!!!!

Also maybe movie tickets