a lasting impression

As I mentioned earlier, "A single envelope has the potential to enhance the well-being of the families you support." That little envelope you hand to an immediate family member after they have struggled to make funeral arrangements can truly serve as the GPS they need to navigate beyond your funeral home or deathcare service, and assist with the storm of grief. This storm can pause their usual routine and leave them feeling overwhelmed and numb, but your small act of kindness can make a meaningful difference. A tiny yet mighty envelope is with them, inside and outside of your funeral services. 

Concierge Envelope: 
FYI, this is part two of my previous post. Check out the earlier post, "Single Envelope," if you need a refresher.

I referred to this tiny yet mighty addition to your funeral home as the "Concierge Envelope." However, since my first post, I've received numerous messages from funeral industry professionals, filled with creative names they will be calling their envelopes: The Jerde Funeral Home Support Envelope, Family Resource Envelope, Our Comfort Envelope, Helping Hands Packet, The Walden Funeral Home Circle of Support, and many more (sorry, I can't list them all; there are too many). 

Next Step:
In my previous post, I provided suggestions on getting started. Now, let's expand this TINY YET MIGHTY envelope:

1. Often the immediate family will neglect or become overwhelmed with their own well-being during bereavement. Team up with a couple of restaurants, a pizza place, and a donut shop. Offer restaurant vouchers or curated restaurant lists that deliver directly to the family's home before or after the funeral. This underscores the importance of proper nutrition and helps prevent its neglect. It also provides comfort when a once quiet house is now filled with unexpected out-of-state family. Consider including a catering service for large meal orders to eliminate the need to search for one. I suggest speaking directly with the owner or manager to request a discount, a gift card, a voucher, or their thoughts on placement within your envelope.

2. During unexpected grief, they face numerous challenges, especially during the funeral service. Support them by providing locations where they can receive assistance with pet care, housekeeping, childcare, and senior care. This can be done by listing national caregiving support companies such as Care.com, Rover, Sitter City, and others.  Or by listing a non-profit in your area that offers such services. 

3. LESS is more! Don't make your envelope overwhelming. Focus on clarity by avoiding overwhelming choices and only providing essential assistance. 

WRAP IT UP! 
Place your "concierge services" in a bereavement card (pre-signed by staff), then place it in the "Concierge Envelope". It's a tiny yet mighty powerful gesture of support that costs nothing and leaves a lasting impression. 
 
You got this! 
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Have questions or need more advice on this topic? I’m here to support you, free of charge! Send a message to [email protected] (response times may vary due to high message volumes).