The Millstone Times February 2019

Homemade Easter Candy at The Chocolate Factory In Freehold

All Your Old Favorites and Some New Ones Too!

We have everything needed to make the perfect Easter basket! Solid Chocolate Bunnies • Jelly Eggs Coconut Cream & Peanut Butter Eggs Foil Wrapped Chocolate Eggs • Jelly Bunnies And much, much more!

627 Park Avenue (Business 33) Freehold, NJ • 732-462-1311 • www.OldMonmouthCandies.com

Funeral Consumer Alliance By, Lauren Kolacki

Losing a loved one hurts. In fact, it is one of the hardest challenges we will ever face. We are over- whelmed with questions and concerns from outsiders all whilst attempting to process our own flood of emotions. We battle with organizing our thoughts, never mind organizing a funeral. That concept alone often results in families making their way over to the nearest funeral home and spending more money than they needed to. Laurie Powsner, a board member of the Funeral Consumer Alliance, has spoken up on the impor- tance of this non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Powsner worked as a hospice social worker for eigh- teen years and now works with people in their last years of life. Being subjected to a notable amount

of death, she has become exceptionally educated on the topic, which originally encouraged her to get involved with the Funeral Consumer Alliance. The Funeral Consumer Alliance’s mission is to ensure consumers are fully prepared and protected when planning a funeral for themselves or their loved ones. Powsner claims, you wouldn’t just walk to your closest car dealership and without doing any research and purchase the first car you see, but that’s how most people make funeral arrangements. This topic isn't one often talked about, however, it should be. Volunteers of Funeral Consumer Alliance speak at senior centers, retirement communities, clubs, religious groups and they send out a newsletter every spring. They are also available to answer your questions via email or phone. It is imperative that the mission behind this organization is made known. The situation is never ideal; however, Laurie Powsner still recommends shopping around, as funeral homes are required to give you prices. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find what is best for you. Powsner claims many of her patients or patients’ families have made their own funeral arrangements, which make it easier for their families. To acquire additional information on this subject log on to funeralnj.org. In addition to further educating yourself on planning a funeral, there is an opportunity to donate and/or join the Funeral Consumer Alliance. “Losing a loved one is hard. Planning a funeral shouldn't be.”

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