When tragedy strikes friends and family it can be hard to think of what you can do or say for them to make their lives just a little easier. So many people immediately think of flowers, and while flowers can be nice they aren't really an ideal gift. For one, they don't last long and for another reason the family in need is likely to get numerous different flower arrangements. It's better to find a gift that is unique and that the family can really enjoy.

Sympathy gift baskets make wonderful sympathy gifts for all occasions. When a woman is dealing with the devastating loss of her husband, it's likely she just wants a few moments alone to try to relax and get her mind off of things. A nice gift basket filled with soothing bath oils and tasty chocolates can give her those few moments she needs. At the end of a long day spent dealing with all the red tape that comes along with dealing with an estate, she can look forward to a nice long bath and a chocolate escape.

When a family loses a home in a fire, flood or other natural disaster, they'll have to start over from square one. Sending a sympathy basket with things that can help them get back on their feet is a very thoughtful gift. For example, you could get them a gift basket that includes items like silverware and napkins. Since they've lost everything, this is at least a bit of help to getting them back on track to running their own household again.

If you're looking to send a gift basket to a family who's been a victim of one of these natural disasters but they're still staying in a hotel or other temporary housing, you might get a different kind of sympathy gift basket. You might get them on that includes individual sizes of toiletries that will be easy for them to carry for their current living situation to a new one. You might also consider treats like cookies and cakes. They likely are saving every penny and aren't able to splurge on tasty things such as pastries.

When giving sympathy gift baskets for any situation, try to think of what they might need in their situation. Are there things that could actually make their life easier, like silverware for disaster victims? If you can't think of any tangible goods that could help, try to think of things that can life their spirits. The goal is to find a way to brighten their day, if just a little.

The better you know a person the easier it will be to find a way to help when tragedy strikes them. However, if you don't know a person well there are still ways to help. Go online and browse the different options available. It's likely that with a little research and a little consideration you will be able to find something that will be perfect for whatever the situation is.