Grief is stressful, taxing the mind and body which can lead to illness. For a griever, preparing individual or family meals on top of everything else is overwhelming, which is why delivering meals can be a thoughtful way to care for a grieving employee.
Nourishing, well-balanced meals support the immune system, boost energy and improve sleep and digestion. Here are some helpful tips and ideas for planning meals for those suffering a loss.
- Ask about dietary restrictions.
- Avoid delivering high-sodium/high-sugar processed foods, fried foods and alcohol.
- Make homemade meals/casseroles that can be frozen (include reheating instructions) like breakfast casseroles, lasagna, barbecue, chili, enchiladas, etc.
- Put together a taco bar with flour/corn tortillas, cooked hamburger/turkey, shredded cheese, salsa, etc.
- Make a sandwich tray with premade sandwiches and condiments.
- Create a snack basket with nuts, granola bars, homemade trail mix and fresh fruit, like bananas and apples.
- Deliver prepared vegetable and/or fruit salads, and veggie platters.
- Make comforting soups or stews, which are often rich in lean proteins and vegetables.
- Encourage staying hydrated by providing flavored water or other healthy liquids.
- Provide paper plates/utensils/napkins so that the griever doesn’t have to clean up.
Organize a Meal Delivery.
Helpful websites to help you organize and deliver meals to your grieving colleague include:
