SO, WHAT SHOULD GO IN A GRIEF CARE PACKAGE?

Grief is one of the most challenging and overwhelming experiences a person can go through. When anyone we care about is hurting, it’s natural to want to reach out. But finding the right words or gestures can feel impossible.

Making a care package for someone grieving is one meaningful way to show support. It’s a quiet reminder that they are not alone, that they are seen, and that their pain matters. More than just a collection of items, a care package is a tangible expression of love and comfort—a small beacon of light during a dark season.

In this post, we’ll explore thoughtful ideas for creating sympathy care packages that honor both the person who is mourning and the memory of the person they’ve lost. We’ll start with some of the basics, and then give you a few ideas to help you personalize the rest.

General Gifts to Include in A Grief Care Package:

Gift cards – Gift cards can be very beneficial to people who are navigating grief. Typically, people receive prepared food from their community during the first few weeks after they have lost their loved one. But after they stop receiving those meals, it can be difficult to find the motivation to cook. Gift cards to restaurants eliminate the need to prepare a meal.

Additionally, grocery or retail gift cards are also helpful. They can help alleviate some of the financial burden of buying food and necessities. 

Encouraging books and videos – Another item that we have found helpful to someone who is grieving is an uplifting book. Try to avoid lengthy books of bereavement testimonies and instead provide something brief and encouraging. 

You can also include video seminars that will assist the person who is grieving to brainstorm ideas and create plans for navigating these difficult times. We offer several of these video lessons, including a short seminar series on how to handle grief through the holidays. 

A gift certificate – Self-care is an important practice, especially for those who have recently lost someone. We recommend that you add a gift certificate for something the person would enjoy, such as a massage or a manicure. This way, they can do something that makes them feel good when they have a bad day or are in a tough spot in their grief journey. 

A card – Last, but certainly not least, you should include a card in the grief care package. Write some words of encouragement. Tell them that they are loved and appreciated. Let them know that you are there for them when they need it. Make it personal.

Personalizing Your Sympathy Gift Baskets

Many of the general gifts above will be tailored to your friend or family member’s tastes, to be sure. But you can also curate your box or basket to their personal interests by adding something special. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• A treat from their hometown that is hard to find in your area, such as a special kind of chips or soda, or a regional candy you’ve heard them rave about.
• A scented candle and candle warmer (especially with the distraction of new grief, open flame might not be the wisest plan)
• A box of calming tea or hot chocolate mix. 
• Try a cozy blanket that fits their personality. You can usually find a nice soft one that matches a favorite sports team or hobby.
• Art supplies or something for their hobby. 

Try sending a care package or sympathy basket with even 3-4 of these items. It’s very likely to brighten your friend’s day. Adding a heartfelt and handwritten note can provide comfort in times when they might be battling feelings of loneliness and grief. Offering kindness with this thoughtful gesture can go a long way, especially when someone is feeling forgotten.

Additional Help and Comfort for Grievers

Supporting and ministering to a friend or family member who is grieving can be difficult and complex. For more ideas, check out our blog post “How Do You Minister To Someone Who Is Grieving?”

Additionally, our course “Journey in Grief Care” is available for grief support training for pastoral care of grief and loss. 

Contact us today if you have any other questions about building a grief care package or if you have questions about our support seminar on handling grief through the holidays.