Quick and Practical Ways to Help in Times of Crisis
Sometimes tragedy can come unexpectedly, leaving family members and friends in a scramble. During these chaotic times, help is often needed immediately. Here are three quick and practical ways to help your loved one in a time of crisis.
Airbnb Care Package
If you have a loved one or friend who is staying at an Airbnb or other lodging due to a family emergency, sending a care package can be a thoughtful gesture that shows you care and are thinking of them during a difficult time. It can also be a huge practical help, as they might not have time to gather the essential items they need during their stay. Here are some ideas of what your care package could include:
- Snacks and treats – send their favorite snack foods that bring comfort and can keep them fed on the go. Think of transportable items like a granola bar, trail mix, or fruit cups.
- Personal care items – depending on the situation, the person may not have had time to pack everything they need. Include some personal care items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
- Comfort items – family emergencies are stressful and emotional times, so including comfort items can add a nice touch to your package. Add in a cozy blanket, a scented candle, a favorite book, or a stress ball.
Childcare
One of the most direct and practical ways to quickly help someone is to provide childcare. This could involve a few hours of after-school care, overnight care, or setting up a rotating schedule where different people take turns watching the children.
If you are unable to care for the person’s children, consider pooling resources with other family members and friends to hire a professional babysitting service. If you do decide to go the route of hiring a childcare service, make sure you consult your loved one beforehand.
Provide Meals
During times of crisis, preparing and cooking a meal is the last thing your loved one will want to worry about. You can help tremendously by dropping off a home-cooked meal or sending a gift card to Grubhub or Ubereats. Depending on how long they’ll need help with meals, you can use a platform like “Take them a Meal” that allows you to easily set up a care calendar for other friends and family members to contribute in the coming weeks.
The most important thing to remember is to be present for your loved one. Times of crisis are never easy and showing your support will help ease some of the stress while letting them know they’re not alone.
Want more ideas? Check out our Gift Sets to send to someone who is going through a time of grief.
