Black communities are grieving. They have been hit doubly hard in recent months, first by COVID-19, which takes black lives at two times the rate it kills white people, and then by the recent deaths of Ahmaud Arbrey, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd.

While much of the country is still under stay-at-home orders, and many Americans are concerned about the risks of participating in in-person gatherings, some have found it difficult to process these emotions, and participate in normal funeral and bereavement traditions. In an interview with Mother Jones recently, Dr. Kami Fletcher of Albright College explored how death denial and avoidance can harm mourners, and how black grief has been expressed during the coronavirus pandemic.

Hospice providers play a crucial role in helping families mourn and process their grief. Across the country, hospices like Infinity Hospice Care in Nevada and Arizona are providing bereavement services for families impacted by coronavirus. Through Medicare, hospice services include up to thirteen months of bereavement care for families. This continued care can be an invaluable resource to families in need. Especially during such an uncertain time, when communities may not be able to take part in the traditions which offer solace after a loved one’s death, dedicated hospice providers demonstrate the consistent caring support we all need in times of grief.