Grief is hard. It’s even harder when it happens during a season that’s already associated with higher rates of depression and less socialization. If you know someone who’s grieving this winter, giving them access to a warm meal is a great way to show that you care in a practical, helpful way. Keep these tips in mind when you’re picking a comfort meal to help with grief this winter.

Someone who’s grieving probably isn’t eating 3 nutritious meals a day. That’s why it’s so important to pack as much nutrition into the meal you give them as possible. Try to use fresh, whole, unprocessed ingredients. Ask the family if they have any food allergies or sensitivities before you start cooking. 

Complex meals generally don’t store, transport, or reheat well. Stick to simple foods that will be easy for the family to prepare and store. Casseroles can be prepared in a foil casserole dish so they can just toss it when they’re finished. Bring a few paper plates along for a truly stress-free meal and cleanup. Soups and crockpot meals are other simple, reliable meals that taste good every time, especially in the winter!

Don’t feel like you have to make a huge multi-course meal to show that you care. Limit it to one dish because chances are, you aren’t the only one bringing food. Making too much food will overwhelm the family and they won’t have enough places to store it all. You can always make a second dish in a few days if they need it! Contacting the family before you bring a dish is always a good idea too. They can let you know what they’ve received, what they still need, and what would be a good time for you to drop the food off to them. 

If you don’t have the time or cooking expertise to make a dish yourself, there’s no shame in buying one instead! Many restaurants have family packs that come with a variety of side dishes and a main course. You can even get a meal delivered if you’re too far away to drop it off yourself. The family will be just as appreciative of a catered meal as they would a homecooked one. Especially if you’re grieving too, don’t put too much pressure on yourself by making everything yourself. 

If you're in need of funeral services in the Quincy area, contact Hamel-Lydon Chapel today to speak with a funeral director and begin planning funeral services for your loved one. Our team can work with you to plan a ceremony that honors your lost loved one in a truly personalized, respectful way. Their life was unique, and their funeral should be too.