Have you ever read an obituary and near the end see something like “memorial donations may be sent to the family”?  Many times, families need help paying for final expenses and decide to ask for donations.  While this is a good idea, it comes with its own set of flaws.  Who do you send the money to and where do you send it?  How much is needed?  What will be done with the donation – will it go where it’s needed the most?  Having a personal connection with the family is one thing – but when friends, employers, church family, or a community want to come together to support a family in need, this may not be the best way to go about it. 

Meacham has a solution as we now offer crowdfunding through Giving Compassion.  This is a unique way to raise funds for families that need help offsetting final expenses.  Done entirely online, a campaign and personalized website can be set up and shared through all social media platforms.  There is no guesswork with Giving Compassion; donors simply click on a link provided by the funeral home where they find a personal page dedicated to the deceased.  The amount of donations requested is clearly displayed along with a history of contributions.  Donors have the option of remaining anonymous and may leave messages for the family at the same time.  Donations are made entirely online and held by Giving Compassion until the end of the campaign (which lasts no longer than 30 days).  At that time, funds are transferred directly to the funeral home where it is applied to the balance owed.  Are fees withheld from donations?  Yes – 8 cents for every dollar given is split between PayPal and Giving Compassion for administrative fees; a relatively small fraction to ensure the money is going where you want it to.  Meacham Funeral Service; we have solutions to difficult situations.