When my SIL was in the hospital and eventually died of covid, someone brought us a bunch of paper products -- Disposable plates. paper towels, plastic forks, toilet paper, kleenex, solo cups, etc. That was much appreciated. We had immediate family of 14 gathered at one home for over a week, plus many many friends dropping by constantly to drop off food and to offer concern and condolences. So the paper products were appreciated for using to eat all the dropped off food and also because we didn't have time to go to the grocery store.

Also, a neighbor came by and did our laundry. A few friends called to ask if there was anything we needed from the grocery store. Those gestures were appreciated as well.

Anonymous wrote:When my friend's husband died unexpectedly - six weeks before her baby was due - I took over a bunch of things I knew she liked as well as just basic necessities. I knew she couldn't get herself to a store. So, basic things like her favorite bottled water, tp, tissues, etc.

But OP said they don't know the family well, so I doubt she knows their favorite lip balms.

If they have a dog you could take on the evening walk for a few weeks (if that's practical for you).

Stuff for the kids is a great idea, I've done similar and it was really appreciated. Also going over to play with the kids and be a person not crying all the time was appreciated too.

Giving one of those big family size couch blankets goes over well too imo.