Sadly, a number of my friends have passed away this year and I was raised never to go to a shiva house empty handed but what if they are overseas?
I decided to honor their memory with a donation to ESRA so that their passing is a positive for those in need. ESRA then sends an acknowledgement to the family.
This has been well received by the families of those that have passed away.
I would encourage you to do the same.
Carolyn Capone