Unique funeral exploratory tour on shroud shop, 

funeral parlor and crematorium 

　　This is a unique tour, visiting shroud shop, funeral parlour, cemetery and witnessing the deceased being sent to the crematorium, all together 32 participants were there, not because they were dare devils but rather they wanted to make arrangements for their funeral affairs. Yesterday, they moved into the funeral parlour, touching the coffins and discuss without concern for taboo and even said, “This one is very nice and really comfortable!” 

　　SJS in conducting the ‘Funeral exploratory tour’rented a 60 seater bus, social worker tour guide waving the little flag with participants joyously joking and chatting all the way. The participants were all senior citizens having nobody to depend on, all hoping to prepare for their last trip in this world.

　　The oldest in the group was a 91 years old lady Chan, never married, having neither next of kin nor friends. She after visiting the cemetery smilingly said “I am not afraid of death. My only worry is not having any body to look after my funeral affairs when I am gone!”

The old people are happy to touch the coffin with smile and talk the funeral arrangement happily.

Scrambling of the next of kin

　　What really had happened was that few years back, her younger sister living with her suddenly passed away. As she had no experience on funeral handling, she and her brother-in-law had to scramble for a few months. In order not to repeat such suffering, she decided to make the arrangement for herself and registered with SJS on the Funeral Netvigation Service.

　　Hand in hand, the childless couple Mr. and Mrs. Lai jointed the tour. Mrs. Lai told us that they had not the slightest idea on funeral arrangement and hoped to learn about it through the Funeral Exploratory Tour. In case her 83 years old husband passed away before her, she knew what to expect.

　　The group was exciting and joyous on visiting the shroud shop and the coffin shop. Besides, complementing how ‘comfortable’ the interior lining of the western style coffin was, they also joked about the lack of sufficient style on the shrouds to choose from.

Assistance to widow/widower senior citizens 

　　The St. Jame’s Settlement started this service to assist those CSSA program recipients who have no children, being widow/widower, divorcee, children living away from Hong Kong, with an open mind in planning ahead for their funeral arrangement. Already registered into this program are some 300 senior citizens. Senior citizens wishing to enjoy such benefit may register with this centre, expressing their wish for free funeral service and we will then apply to the Social Welfare Department for funeral subsidy capped at HK$ 10,000s.

　　Starting end of this month, the service has been extended to non-CSSA recipients. However, they will have to bear the cost of such services estimated at HK$ 10,000 to 30,000. For enquiry, please call 2831 3232.