When someone you care about is going through a difficult time, your first instinct is to find ways to be there for them. However, directors of funeral homes in Robbinsville, NJ, understand how death can inevitably tie one’s hands as it doesn’t work around your schedule.

Perhaps, for one reason or another, you are unable to show up in person for a friend who is having a funeral for their loved one. Still, there are ways to support them, five of which we discuss in the guide below.

1. Send a card

The simplest way to show your support is to send a condolence card. This can be done virtually with an e-card, but if possible, a handwritten card comes across as more thoughtful. You can include a brief personal message expressing that your heart is with them on this difficult day.

2. Send flowers or sympathy gifts

This doesn’t need to be an elaborate gesture, but it can still show that you care. A small bouquet or a personalized gift, like a piece of memorial jewelry, are great options for this purpose.

If you cannot deliver it in person, add the sender’s name on the note so the recipient knows who it’s from. Do not forget to send your condolences along with them, as this will demonstrate your support better than just sending random items alone.

Before sending items, check that they are in accordance with the bereaved wishes regarding funeral gifts. Some mourners specify how they’d like to receive support—for instance, donations in lieu of flowers.

3. Donate in the deceased’s honor

If you’d like to support the bereaved family in a more substantial way, consider donating in the deceased’s name. In some cases, you may be told about an organization that is close to their heart.

You can contribute money, new and old items, food, or volunteer to join a venture that aligns with the late person’s legacy. If unsure how to proceed, you can ask for guidance from the funeral director or the deceased’s family.

4. Help out with arrangements

Consider offering your help with other tasks related to the deceased’s passing. This may include helping with funeral arrangements, organizing items belonging to the deceased person, etc.

If you’re not quite sure what help is needed, ask someone close to the bereaved family if they need any assistance you can handle.

5. Show up for the bereaved family after the funeral

That services are over does not mean your grieving friend no longer needs you. After the funeral, there are still lots of things to be dealt with, both logistically and emotionally. Try to show up in any capacity you can, be it by bringing them food, helping out around the house, or just being present so they are not lonely.

Check in on them when you can, not to fill the void left behind by the deceased but to help make the silence more bearable for the bereaved.

If you’d like more information about supporting someone who has just lost a loved one, please get in touch with our Robbinsville, NJ, funeral home. We are available to help you with your questions, and we’d be happy to discuss the needs of your friends or family members.