CaringBridge is making it easier for family caregivers to ask for support with “Ways to get help”

We know and understand the incredible challenges family caregivers face—balancing 30+ unpaid hours of caregiving on top of a full-time job is overwhelming. It’s easy to feel isolated, unsupported, and emotionally exhausted, and we’re committed to lightening that load.

That’s why CaringBridge has introduced the “Ways to Get Help” feature, designed to simplify asking for and receiving support during a health journey.

“Ways to Get Help” offers practical tools and resources that help family caregivers activate their communities in meaningful, manageable ways. Whether you need meals, financial assistance, or just a little extra support, this feature is all about surrounding you with the help you need—when you need it most. Here are four ways this feature can help you and your community during a health journey.

1. Set Up a GoFundMe

Financial strain is often a significant burden for family caregivers. With CaringBridge, you can easily set up a new GoFundMe or link an existing one directly to your page. This means your friends and family can contribute financially without the awkwardness of asking for help. It’s a straightforward way to ease financial worries, allowing you to focus more on care and less on costs.

2. Start a Meal Train

Coordinating meals can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! With the Meal Train feature, you can inform your community about when and where meals are needed. You can also specify dietary preferences and allergies, making it easier for your loved ones to provide nutritious meals that meet your family’s needs. This way, you can enjoy home-cooked goodness without having to ask for help.

3. Request Gift Cards

Sometimes, a little extra help goes a long way. CaringBridge allows friends and family to send virtual or physical gift cards for essentials like groceries, gas, or transportation. A simple post on your CaringBridge page can let your network know this option is available, making it easy for them to contribute in a way that suits your needs.

4. Use Instacart Grocery Delivery Support

We know how overwhelming it can be to manage day-to-day tasks during a health journey. Now, friends and family can offer their help by purchasing and sending groceries directly to you through Instacart.

5. Use the Request post feature to help with specific needs

One of the most powerful aspects of the “Ways to Get Help” feature is the ability to specify your needs. From practical tasks to emotional support, you can post exactly what you require at any given time. Request is a type of post that empowers you to ask for support with real-life needs- whether it's child care, transportation, meals, or errands. The Request posts exists within your CaringBridge page, and the categories have been recommended by CaringBridge users who have walked in your shoes.

Once a Request is posted, an email notification is sent to all of your followers, making it easy for loved ones to step in and offer help when it's needed most.

(If the CaringBridge author you are following hasn’t yet identified any “Ways to Help,” yet consider posting a “Comment” indicating that you’re eager to help. For more information, check out our Help Center article on "Ways to get help")

At CaringBridge, we understand that navigating a health journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. Our “Ways to Get Help” feature is designed to simplify the process of asking for help, making it easier for you to receive the support and assistance you need and deserve.

Visit your CaringBridge page today to explore how you can activate your community and lighten your caregiving load. Remember, you’re not alone—we’re here to help surround you with support.