We know that the days, weeks and months following a funeral can be difficult and challenging. Therefore we are proud to have a Bereavement Support Team on hand to assist you in make this difficult journey thorough grief. We offer an extensive list of bereavement resources and support groups, both on site and through community referrals. Each of our Funeral Homes has a Kids Korner where children have a place to express their grief, and a comprehensive library with books, magazines and videos available for you to check out.

If you would like more information about our Bereavement Support Services, please e-mail us or call us at 1-800-516-3595.

Services and Programs

Support Groups - Daytime and evening support groups are offered throughout the year in several locations. Support groups are a good way to learn about loss and meet others who are adjusting to a changed life. 

Community Presentations - Trained and experienced presenters speak on a wide range of topics for the bereaved and professionals in the community.  Topics may also be tailored fit to your individual organizational needs.

Resources

Children's Resources - Each of our Funeral Homes has a 'Kids Korner' where children are able to take a break from the intensity of a funeral or visitation through coloring books, videos and toys.  Memory pages are available as a healthy way for children to express their grief.

Informational Packets - We have an extensive collection of handouts on a variety of subjects including: general loss, loss of a spouse, loss of a child or teen, traumatic loss, suicide, helping children, holidays, seasonal handouts, and how to help others.

Library - A resource library is located at all of our Funeral Homes. Books, magazines and videos are available for checkout.

Other Grief Resources   

www.communityhospice.org
Hospice offers a range of grief support groups for children and adults.

www.timesunion.com/communities/samaritans
Grief support groups for those who have lost one to suicide.

Haven Grief Counseling: 518-370-1666
Grief support groups for people of all ages.

How To Help

Do write cards or letters that the bereaved can turn to during lonely times.

Do invite conversation, let the bereaved feel free to talk or express feelings of anger, guilt, sadness, fear without embarrassment. Let them tell and re-tell what has happened.

Do listen. You don't need to try to "fix" the situation, just let the bereaved talk and express feelings at the moment.

Do visit and call often. Respect the need for the person to be alone at times. Strive for a balance between companionship and privacy.

Do plan activities--invite and offer transportation. Don't be disappointed if the person declines your invitation.

Do offer a helping hand with child or pet care, house sitting, yard work, or housecleaning.  Prepare meals or offer an invitation to dine out or invite them to stay with you.

Do offer your skills to assist with organizational and clerical support such as writing notification letters, helping with the finances, or helping with the thank you notes.

Do hold hands, give hugs.

Do share memories. Don't avoid conversation about the one who has died.

Do ask, "What can I do?" Be sincere about what you are willing to do. Know your limits. Only make offers if you can follow-through on them.

Do make available personal resources e.g., a weekend stay at a cabin, hot tub, use of VCR, etc…
 

Don't judge. Believe in the person’s ability to get through grief in their own way and in their own time.