Dear Family and Friends,
It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected and tragic loss of Captain Michael H. Mercado.
Captain Mercado passed away on December 8th, 2024, just seven days shy of his birthday. He dedicated 25 years of service to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, where he was a beloved member of the team and a pillar of strength in his community.
Captain Mercado is survived by his loving wife and four children, two of whom have recently started college. As we navigate this devastating loss, we humbly ask for your support during this difficult time. Your generosity will help provide for his family in the days ahead.

We are deeply saddened by his passing, and words cannot fully express our gratitude for your kindness, support, and condolences. Your thoughts and prayers are a comfort to us all.
Thank you.

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Sian

In support of Mike Mercado’s family

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<a href="https://instacart.oloiyb.net/c/1246143/413183/7412" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instacart</a> is a grocery delivery service that delivers in as little as an hour. They connect you with Personal Shoppers in your area who pick up and deliver your groceries from your favorite local stores.
Why We Love This Gift: Shopping for groceries is a chore under the best of circumstances. For families facing a new lift event or crisis, it is very often incredibly stressful. The gift of a cupboard full of basic necessities is tremendous. It is a wonderful way to remind those you love that you have not forgotten the day-to-day challenges they face. You are telling them in no uncertain terms that they are not alone.
What to Express in Your Card: I was thinking about the things you have to get done every day. I hope you'll let me help a little by giving me a chance to buy you some groceries - and have them delivered to you. Just one lest task for you to worry about. I send you my love.

Instacart

Instacart - Instacart Gift Card

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Email

What is the best gift anytime? A Target eGift Card. With no fees and no expiration dates, the real question is: who couldn't use a gift card from Target?
Why We Love This Gift: Whether as a baby gift or to replenish supplies around the house, to cheer up a sick kid, or help someone with prescription costs, you can almost always find exactly what you need at Target. We love this gift because it enables your recipient with endless options and the ability to purchase precisely what they need - no questions asked.
What To Say In Your Card: I thought this might come in handy. I am sending you so much love!

Target

Target - Target Gift Card

With your favorite restaurants at your fingertips, DoorDash satisfies your cravings and connects you with possibilities -- more time and energy for yourself and those you love.
Why We Love This Gift: In every situation, food is necessary. Let your recipient select exactly what they want to eat - and have it delivered. Win and Win.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you and I want you to eat something that appeals to you. You choose. xo

DoorDash

DoorDash - DoorDash Gift Card

Chipotle offers a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere.
Through their vision of Food With Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food from using ingredients that are not only fresh, but that - where possible - are sustainably grown and raised responsibly with respect for the animals, the land, and the farmers who produce the food. And...delicious too!
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because Chipotle offers a clean and affordable fast food alternative. This is a great gift for anyone - who doesn't love Chipotle?
What To Express In Your Card: I miss you! Grab a meal. Sending you love.

Chipotle

Chipotle offers a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere.

Chipotle - Chipotle Gift Card

Amazon gift cards never expire and they carry no fees. Redeemable towards millions of items at Amazon.com and also certain affiliated websites. Deliverable electronically and instantly.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it's appropriate for any situation. Let your recipient choose just what they need, when they need it... with ease, convenience, and endless options.
What To Express In Your Card: I'm sending you my love.

Amazon.com

Amazon

Amazon.com - Amazon Gift Card

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world.
Why We Love This Gift: Because it is coffee. We love this gift for that reason, but also because coffee (and tea) can facilitate conversation. People stop and talk over coffee and tea. Barista-made cups of coffee or steaming cups of hot tea are among life's "little" indulgences - the kind of thing that lifts people up. They are also among the first things people slash from tight budgets. Help them put it back. This gift is suitable for anyone to whom you want to express concern, consideration, or love. Also, here is a hot tip: teenagers love Starbucks. It is a great gift for a teenager.
What to Express in Your Card: I was just thinking about you as you grapple with recent events. I hope you will take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee - I know you are a latte fan. Maybe we can even meet for a cup? I'd love to know how you are doing and what I can do to be helpful. I send you lots of love.

Starbucks

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world.

Starbucks - Starbucks Gift Card

This e-gift card allows access to all Walmart products. Useful for anyone anywhere.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it offers access to things like pharmacies when a family you love is in need. Many aspects of surgical care are not covered by insurance - these expenses can add up. This is especially true when a family is on a fixed income. Items like canes, walkers, surgical gauze, and more - can all be underwritten in this way. (Bonus: It respects, as well, the privacy and dignity of the person you love). Supplements that are doctor recommended (always check) can also be covered in this manner. Walmart also just has everything so for someone who has lost their job it enables them to get what they need without spelling it all out. People are proud.
What To Express in Your Card: You'd do exactly the same. xo

Walmart

Walmart - Walmart Gift Card

Uber Eats is the easy way to get the food you love delivered.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it allows the recipient to choose exactly what they want, when they want it. Sometimes we need to have a backup plan tucked away in our pocket, and Uber Eats is it. Bonus: Uber Eats gift cards are also redeemable for Uber rides.
What To Say In Your Card: Please eat something. I am thinking about you.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats - Uber Eats Gift Card

Italian Generosity is always on the table.  At Olive Garden, we know that life is better together and everyone is happiest when they're with family. From never ending servings of our freshly baked breadsticks and iconic garden salad, to our homemade soups and sauces, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking so much about you. Please take a few minutes to get something to eat and drink - on me.

Olive Garden&reg;

Olive Garden offers an award-winning wine list and a range of delicious Italian dishes inspired by the Culinary Institute of Tuscany in Italy.

Give InKind

Olive Garden&reg; - Olive Garden Gift Card

Domino's gift cards can be redeemed for pizza, sandwiches, desserts, and much more. Try their Artisan Pizza, Stuffed Cheesy Bread, Oven Baked Sandwiches, Parmesan Bread Bites, or Chocolate Lava Crunch Cakes. With the Domino's Pizza gift card, you can dine in the restaurant or order home-delivered pizza online. Treat someone to a Domino's gift card today.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because everyone loves sharing their favorite slice of pizza with someone they love. For example, those who have lost a loved one may sometimes permit themselves a little comfort and companionship. In such a circumstance, a meal shared is a true and lasting kindness. If the deceased was a breadwinner, the bereaved may be watching the wallet. Enable this person you love to grab a meal - wherever s/he is.
What To Express in Your Card: Please have something to eat.

Domino's

Domino's - Dominos Gift Card

Panera Bread is committed to providing great-tasting, quality food that people can trust.
Highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients, and a menu free of man-made trans-fat, Panera is committed to providing great tasting quality food people can trust.
With a wide variety of year-round favorites, their menu is complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the country, guests are enjoying Panera's warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free Wi-Fi access.
Why We Love This Gift: We like convenient, comfortable, and quality chain restaurant food. You know who else might like it? Anyone who has reason to spend time with a sick relative in a hospital. Chain restaurants can provide a valuable change of scene and a little headspace.
What To Express In Your Card: Please stop for a minute and eat something. Let's catch up soon? I love and miss you.

Panera Bread

Panera Bread is committed to providing great-tasting, quality food that people can trust.

Panera Bread - Panera Gift Card

The Darden&reg; Restaurants Gift Card provides 9 distinguished and diverse restaurants on one card.  From Olive Garden's never-ending servings of our freshly baked breadsticks and iconic garden fresh salad to fresh, boldly seasoned and expertly grilled steaks - like the signature bone-in Outlaw Ribeye&reg; at LongHorn Steakhouse, we have one card with all your favorites.    Darden&reg; Restaurants Gift Card can be redeemed at any Olive Garden&reg;, LongHorn Steakhouse&reg;, Yard House&reg;, Ruth's Chris&reg; Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen&reg;, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52&reg;, Eddie V's and Bahama Breeze&reg; restaurants in the U.S.  Gift Cards can be redeemed for Online To Go, Catering and Dine-In meals.
What To Express In Your Card: I am thinking about you so much. Please, take a few minutes and get something to eat and drink on me.

Darden Restaurants

With over 1,500 restaurants in all 50 states, the Darden Gift Card is redeemable at some of the most recognizable brands in full-service dining including Olive Garden®, LongHorn Steakhouse®, Bahama Breeze®, Seasons 52®, Yard House®, and Cheddar&#8217;s® among others.

Darden Restaurants - Bahama Breeze Gift Card

From fresh hand-prepared salads to mouthwatering burgers, Chili's kicks up the flavor with food that is anything but ordinary.
Why We Love This Gift: Burgers. Ribs. Fajitas - what's not to love about fresh Tex Mex flavors?
What To Express In Your Card: Sending a gift I know you will love. Please, call me anytime.

Chili's

From fresh hand-prepared salads to mouthwatering burgers, Chili&#8217;s kicks up the flavor with food that is anything but ordinary.

Chili's - Chili's Gift Card

Give your friends and loved ones the gift of entertainment with AMC gift cards. Good for both movies and concessions and reloadable at any AMC theatre in the United States.
Why We Love This Gift: Perfect for anyone in need of a pick-me-up. We love this gift because it provides an escape into a movie of your recipient's choosing, which can often help them clear their heads.
What To Express In Your Card: I know you have a lot on your mind right now. I hoped that you would enjoy a movie. I wanted to provide what little escapism I am able - I'd love to join you if you'll have me. Sending you lots of love.

AMC Theatres&reg;

AMC Theatres&reg; - AMC Theatres Gift Card

One of America's favorite restaurants. IHOP features high-quality food and friendly service. IHOP restaurants are best known for their award-winning pancakes, omelets, and other scrumptious breakfast specialties.  They also offer a wide variety of lunch and dinner options.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because pancakes are delicious. Breakfast diners like IHOP provide a leisurely break for a tired family to sit down together and simply enjoy one another's company.
What To Express in Your Card: Everyone loves pancakes. I am thinking of you.

IHOP&reg;

IHOP&reg; - IHOP Gift Card

Join your neighbors at Applebee's for delicious food, friendly service, and a hometown atmosphere that cannot be beat. From American classics like Applebee's House Sirloin to signature dishes like their Fiesta Lime Chicken, Applebee's is the go-to place for great food and good times.
Why We Love This Gift: Applebee's is suitable for any occasion. Situations in which a meal is a good choice include military spouses coping with a deployed spouse. Buy them a meal to let them know you are thinking of them. Or, those who have lost a loved one may sometimes permit themselves a little comfort and companionship. In such a circumstance, a meal shared is a true and lasting kindness. If the deceased was a breadwinner, the bereaved may be watching the wallet. Enable this person you love to grab a meal - wherever s/he is.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you.

Applebee's&reg;

Applebee's&reg; - Applebee's® Gift Card

The digital Visa gift card is another convenient option for supporting someone when they need it most. It allows the recipient to select their own essentials or gifts from a wide range of merchants. The card will be emailed to your recipient’s inbox and is for online or by phone use only. It’s a thoughtful way to show your support and let them know you’re there for them.
Why we love this gift: 
With ever-changing needs, this gift allows your loved one to purchase whatever they need, whenever they need it. The digital Visa gift card is a fast, easy way to put funds in your recipient’s hands. This gift card is all about giving them that flexibility and peace of mind.

Looking for a memorable gift that adapts to any situation?
The physical Visa gift card combines the practicality of a Visa credit card—usable both in-store and online—and the thoughtfulness of a greeting card. For just $5.95 and the cost of your chosen shipping method, we will print your custom Give InKind Visa gift card and personalized greeting card, and send directly to your loved one. The versatility and personal touch of this gift makes it no surprise this is our most gifted card.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-235811 size-full" style="margin: 0 auto;" src="https://cms.giveinkind.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/GreetingCard-getWell.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="386" />
Why we love this gift:
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<li>Versatility: Needs can change quickly in challenging times. This all-purpose gift card allows your loved one to purchase precisely what they need, when they need it. Be it a comforting meal, a therapy session, spa treatment, fuel, diapers, or countless other possibilities. No questions asked.</li>
<li>Personalization: Add a heartfelt message to both the gift card itself and the greeting card. Pick your favorite among the many available greeting card designs to give your gift a personal touch. And for those urgent moments, you can always choose to have your gift shipped overnight.</li>
<li>Show you care: It’s the perfect way of letting a recipient know you are thinking of them, no matter how far away they may be. Whether it’s sending love after the birth of a new baby, some healthy vibes with a Get Well card, or even a simple ‘Thinking of You’ your gift can truly make a difference for a friend going through some intense times.</li>
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The Give InKind Custom Visa card is the perfect way to show your support during challenging times, or anytime you want to show you care. Whether you're sending love after the birth of a new baby, or sending good vibes during a difficult period, the Give InKind Custom Visa card is the perfect way to show your support.
This card is available with an optional greeting card, so you can add a personal touch to your gesture. And for those urgent moments, you can always choose to have your card shipped overnight.
The Give InKind Custom Visa card is more than just a card. It's a way to make a difference in the lives of those you love, and give them the support they need. Show your support today with the Give InKind Custom Visa card.
Additional charges will apply at checkout depending on delivery preferences. There are no additional charges for any digital cards sent via email.

Visa Gift Card

Visa Gift Card - Visa Gift Card

Visa Gift Card - Visa Digital Gift Card

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General Support

Setting up a food train is one of the best ways to help support someone you love. Here are some tips on how to give groceries as a gift.

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train - Give InKind

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Modern Couple At Coffee Shop

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David Shafer

Best-selling author David Shafer on why it is better to acknowledge grief - even if we say the wrong thing. Visit Give InKind for articles, information, and a new way to schedule meals and offer concrete assistance to the bereaved.

Grief: Better To Say The Wrong Thing Than Nothing At All

New York Times Best-selling author David Shafer on acknowledging grief. Visit Give InKind for information and concrete ways to help the bereaved.

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Tara Shafer

Consider what you want to convey in your gift of flowers. Here are some considerations in making a selection. Visit Give InKind for information, articles, and a new way to schedule food and support to those in times of need.

What Flowers Express: In Illness & In Grief

Consider what you wish to express in your selection. Visit Give InKind for ideas, information, and a new way to schedule meals in times of need.

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