For families who have lost someone due to COVID-19 last year, there may be financial assistance available to help pay for funeral expenses through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA will begin accepting applications through their dedicated call center starting Monday, April 12th. The stimulus package passed last December called The Consolidated Appropriations Act 2020 includes $2 Billion specifically …
The Benefits of Creative Therapy for Grief
Grief is heavy. Every one of us – no matter where we are in life – will at some point come face to face with the seriousness of grief. Unattended grief can manifest as physical sickness, depression, anger and can affect us in a wide variety of other ways, so it is important to give grief the support and attention …
Understanding Veterans Burial Benefits
“There is no greater calling than to serve your fellow men. There is no greater contribution than to help the weak. There is no greater satisfaction than to have done it well.” – Walter Reuther The brave men and women of the military have done us all a great service. The very least we can do to show our appreciation …
How (and Why!) to Write Your Own Obituary
If you’ve ever had to write an obituary for a loved one, you know what an intimidating responsibility it can be—to try to sum up someone’s life on a piece of paper is nothing short of profound. To ease the difficulty during the period of loss, many individuals are choosing to write their own obituaries—a task that can feel difficult, …
Food and Feelings: the effects of comfort foods during stress
“When I think of comfort food, grandma’s house immediately comes to mind. My childhood never missed a good, hearty, feel-good meal when we would visit. From a stack of homemade buttermilk pancakes to unforgettable chicken and dumplings, fried chicken that was even better the next day, or an extra-peppery pot roast… just how grandpa liked it. I have a lot …
“How can I feed them?” 23 food delivery ideas for the bereaved
“Food is comfort. When we think back, times that we have shared with our family generally involve meals or gatherings. Eating and laughing are memories that bring us comfort and when a death occurs, we want to provide comfort to someone who is hurting. It is the act of giving someone food that is the way we express that which …
4 Easy Condolence Recipes + Printable Meal Cards
Food is not only a necessity, but it also brings comfort to our friends and loved ones who are recovering. Whether it’s a food train, helping with the reception, or an individual effort to contribute, food is a deeply meaningful and integral part of the community’s effort to aid those in distress. “What we really want to do, intend to …
Grief Rituals that Overcome COVID Limitations
“The Covid-19 virus does not stop grief. It is our honor and duty to still provide our client families with personalized services during this time.” – Renee Townsel, Funeral Director at Tharp Funeral Home Healthy grief cycles are tied to healthy funeral rituals. Remembering the person who died, accepting the reality of death, and receiving love and support from others …
Covid-19 Funerals: guidance for individuals and families
Funeral rituals have taken a new direction in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Group guidelines and physical interaction are two elements that are most affected by social distancing. Many families are asking what their options are for either planning or attending funerals with all of these changes. People are asking questions like: What are the specific guidelines …
Grieving in a Time of Social Distancing: 5 Healthy Steps Forward
Funeral services can be a definitive moment to say goodbye, to share stories, and find relief. But grieving in a time of social distancing brings its own unprecedented challenges. Under the current restrictions, we’re faced with social distancing, isolation, and shifting expectations. Although it may feel discouraging, it is possible to discover creative ways to remain connected and move forward. …