How to Get a Headstone Donated

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When a loved one dies, the financial burdens of paying for the burial can quickly mount. The headstone is expensive, and something that some families delay buying because a temporary, smaller and less personal, marker can be used. One option is to seek out donations to help with the headstone or even to cover all of the related costs.

1 Set up an account for donations

Set up an account for donations. Go to a bank and set up a special account or fund just for any fundraising efforts related to the headstone. Also sign up for an online wallet account that allows people to easily donate to you electronically.

2 Write a foundation that donates headstones

Write a foundation that donates headstones. Foundations donate headstones in different areas and to families who lost children, parents or others. Check the foundation's websites for any requirements or call the organization director to ask how you can get help.

3 Hold a garage sale

Hold a garage sale, chili dinner or another benefit. Spread the word through social media and in your community. Explain that you're using all funds raised for the headstone. Put all of the money directly in the account you created for the headstone. You can also hold a virtual fundraiser and ask friends, family and the public to donate.

4 Check to see if the deceased person's

Check to see if the deceased person's employer or other groups will donate the marker. For example, the government pays for headstones for veterans and military members killed in active duty.

Approach a news media outlet with your story. Email a reporter from a local newspaper or station and explain why you can't afford the headstone. Also talk about your loved one and how he died. If a story runs, you could receive donations from readers. A headstone company might offer to donate the marker after the story runs.

Kristine Brite worked as a community journalist and public relations specialist before moving onto freelance writing. She graduated with a degree in journalism from Indiana University and has six years of professional writing experience.

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