When a Rainbow Hospice patient dies, our support for family members and loved ones continues. One of our bereavement counselors calls the family to see how they are doing, ensuring that they know about the services offered and arrange for a visit or further follow up phone contact if needed. Each month, for 13 months, we send the bereaved a specialized mailing that touches upon a different topic related to the grieving process. At the sixth month, widowed persons are sent a copy of the Widowed Support Services newsletter, with the option to continue to receive it at no cost.

Quarterly, we invite Rainbow Hospice and community bereaved to an Interfaith Memorial Service presented at various houses of worship throughout the Chicagoland area. The service gathers people who share the experience of loss, giving them a chance to honor their relationships with their loved ones and celebrate their lives. During each service, the participants receive a symbolic memorial gift. At 12 months, we send the bereaved an anniversary card to let them know that they, and their loved ones, are remembered at this important and challenging time. Throughout the 13 month period, Rainbow Hospice sends its bereaved community a Schedule of Groups, Workshops and Events that gives information about the extensive bereavement services offered. During this time the fee is waived for any of these services for Rainbow Hospice bereaved.