Ideas for neighbors who lost father suddenly.

[Puppmom]

We've become pretty close with our neighbors over the years. I actually posted about what great people they are recently - they fixed a leaky pipe for us.

Well, the husband's dad committed suicide yesterday. They were pretty close to him and he watched their two young children (5 and 2) once per week.

I want to do nice things for them but I need help with ideas. I've offered to walk the dog, watch the kids. But I want to do something that they don't have to ask for. We've got dinner covered for the next three nights. What else?

I feel so terrible. They're seriously the nicest family.

 

[elle_71125]

Maybe something simple like moving their lawn. You wouldnt have to ask and it shows you're thinking about them.

 

[KaeKae]

I'm so sorry to hear this. My heart goes out to your friends.

I think you have a great idea. My first thought, after food, was regular household chores. If they cut their grass themselves, could you do it or arrange to have it done? Will they be holding a post funeral gathering at their home? Could you help get the house ready, or arrange for a cleaning company to come do it and maybe volunteer to stay while it's happening, as they may have to be out making funeral arrangements.

 

[pearaffair]

Making it known that you're available. And that your home space is available maybe?

For example, if their freezer gets full of food dropped off, they can put the overflow in your freezer. Or even possibly if they have out of town guests for the funeral, your guest room is available.

 

[Puppmom]

Thanks, guys! We've offered babysitting, play dates and dog walking. We've brought by food. Their lawn has been mowed and looks ok for now but that's a good idea. Things seem to be pretty hectic for them at the moment.

We'll keep reminding them we're available as things settle down and they're back in a routine.

 

[marcy]

That is so sad. You've got some great ideas already. Maybe also offer to pick up things they may need at the store or run errands for them.

 

[PintoBean]

Gift cards to the local supermarket was extremely helpful to me.

 

[MollyMalone]

Maybe wash-wax their car(s) -- or arrange to have that done for them, either at a local place or by one of those mobile, car wash-detailing services that come to the home or office (think most towns have those enterprises nowadays).

If they don't have a home security system already installed & if your local PD permits its officers to moonlight, perhaps you and other concerned friends could hire an officer to safeguard the house while they are at the funeral/memorial service (if that hasn't already taken place). There are criminal types, I'm sorry to say, who read obituaries with an eye to figuring out & then burglarizing the house during funeral home visitation hours or the service.

 

[valeria101]

Until a week or so after the funeral, they may have many offers to help, later, you are likely to be one of just a couple of people paying any attention. I would not expect the worst of the aftermath to last less than a few months. Then ...

[familiar madness]