Support a Grieving Co-Worker, Gifts that truly Help

Grief doesn’t clock in or out. When a co-worker loses someone they love, it changes everything — even if they’re still showing up at work, replying to emails, or quietly keeping their head down. You might not know exactly what to say (that’s okay — most people don’t), but you can do something that helps.

The truth is, during grief, people don’t need grand gestures. They need small, steady signals that say: You’re not alone. We care. We see you.

If you're looking for a way to express your support — beyond the standard sympathy card or bouquet — here are some heartfelt and truly helpful gifts that can bring comfort, relief, and even a moment of peace.

1. Give Them Nourishment — Without the Effort

When someone is grieving, the basics — like feeding themselves — become heavy. A lovingly chosen food gift can lift some of that weight.

• Catered Meals or Private Chef Delivery: Send ready-to-eat meals from a local chef who specializes in comforting, nourishing food. Choose options that require zero prep and come in individual portions. This is care at its most practical.

• Bakery Box with a Note from You: A beautiful box of fresh pastries, bread, or cookies from a local bakery is a sweet, simple gesture — especially if it comes with a handwritten message that says, “Thinking of you. No need to reply.”

• Gift Card for a Local Meal Service: If you’re not sure about dietary preferences, a gift card to a curated meal service or local restaurant gives them the flexibility to choose when they're ready.

2. Offer Rest, Quiet, and a Moment to Breathe

Grief is exhausting. Physically, mentally, emotionally. Help them find even just a few minutes of calm.

• Session at a Local Healing Center or Sauna: Gifting a visit to a place designed for relaxation — whether it’s a gentle sauna, infrared therapy, or a guided healing session — can offer a physical release to match the emotional one.

• Guided Meditation, Massage, or Sound Bath: If they’re open to it, a voucher to a local wellness practitioner (many grief-aware therapists now use these techniques) can provide a gentle re-grounding experience.

• Quiet Care Package: A small gift box filled with things like herbal tea, a journal, an eye mask, or a calming candle lets them know it’s okay to pause. These little rituals of comfort can be surprisingly powerful.

3. Help Lighten the Load at Home

Grieving while managing life’s day-to-day responsibilities can be overwhelming. Offering real, tangible help at home can be a deeply appreciated act of kindness.

• Professional Cleaning Service: A one-time deep clean or ongoing cleaning support is a gift they might never ask for, but will absolutely value.

• Home Organization Gift Card: As time passes, things accumulate — belongings, paperwork, and emotional clutter. Gifting an organizing session (when they’re ready) can help them slowly reclaim space and clarity.

• “Do Nothing” Day: Pair a cleaning service with a catered lunch and a cozy gift box. The message: “You don’t need to do anything today. We’ve got it covered.”

4. Give With Sensitivity and Follow-Up

A few tips to make any gift feel even more genuine:

• Skip the Pressure: Include a note that says, “No need to respond.” This gives them permission to receive without feeling like they have to say thank you right away.

• Consider Timing: Grief doesn’t end after the funeral. A check-in gift a few weeks or months later — a fresh meal, a care box, or a note can mean even more.

• Offer Flexibility: Choose gifts they can use when they’re ready, not when the calendar says they should have moved on.

You Can’t Fix It — But You Can Show Up

You don’t have to say the perfect thing. You don’t have to solve anything. You just have to show up in a way that feels thoughtful and human. By giving with intention— you’re doing more than checking a box. You’re helping someone feel a little less alone in one of life’s hardest moments. Need more inspiration? Check out this NYTimes Article for additional suggestions.