Frequently Asked Questions

What's the relationship between The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and The Unforgettables Fund – Toronto Chapter? How will gifts be managed by SickKids?

Donations directed to the Unforgettables Fund are managed by SickKids Foundation. Tax receipts will be issued for donations over $20. Funds are designated to the Unforgettables Fund within the broader Patient Amenities program which supports families in need. When a family receives support from the Fund, a cheque is issued through the Patient Amenities Program directly to the service provider.

What is the relationship between OACFP (Ontario Association of Cemetery & Funeral Professionals) and The Unforgettables Fund?

The Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP), a not for profit provincial association founded in 1913, is a volunteer-based membership driven association, focused on providing value through education, professional development and innovation. The OACFP has supported this charity with proceeds raised from the annual charity golf day since it’s inception. More recently, the OACFP has adopted The Unforgettables Fund as it’s charity of choice and is increasing fundraising efforts to further support this much needed cause.

How do Families apply for support?

The families that The Unforgettables Fund supports financially are under the care of a SickKids healthcare team. An application is made to The Unforgettables Fund administrator upon the death of the child. Eligibility criteria include the family's financial capacity, the overall cost of the funeral and utilization of other sources of support when appropriate.

Why aren't the Funeral Homes supporting this free of cost? Why isn't it free?

Historically, it is the funeral homes that have been quietly waiving funeral costs to support bereaved and financially traumatized families. But there are so many other financial stresses associated with a funeral. Funeral homes still incur expenses from outside suppliers - caskets, food, flowers, newspaper announcements and taxes to name a few. There are also costs in consideration of cemetery and cremation services. Even the most modest funeral will never be completely free.

The Unforgettables Fund aims to reach families in need with significant financial support toward the cost of the funeral.

What is a dignified funeral? What kind of expenses does The Unforgettables Fund cover for families?

The Unforgettables Fund believes that every child is entitled to a dignified funeral. By alleviating a significant financial worry, The Unforgettables Fund aims to help families stay focused on what is important to them: spending time with their child at end-of-life. Expenses that might be covered by The Unforgettables Fund include direct and indirect costs for burial and/or ceremony, and reasonable costs associated with burying a child within their faith. Expenses are capped at $2,000 per family.