Dear Valued Member of our Family & Community,

We understand that all of the news coverage and concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus can raise a lot of questions regarding funerals.  We want you to know that Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., is still here to assist you 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Arrangements are now being made via phone and email with our staff of licensed funeral directors for the safety of your family and ours. We are taking every precaution while still providing you and your loved ones the same compassionate and professional care you have to come to expect from us. 

In an effort to avoid unnecessary spread of the virus, we are temporarily requiring that all families plan small, private graveside services and limit the number of people in attendance to 10. We will provide all families with the option to hold a memorial service at the funeral home or at their synagogue/temple at a later date when all restrictions have been lifted, at no additional charge. 

Mourners will receive Kriah ribbons and family members can pin themselves. We will also provide you with Yahrzeit candles and acknowledgment cards. Unfortunately, for now we will not be supplying kipot/veils or shiva equipment as these items can possibly spread the virus. 

We recommend that you take the following preventative actions:
 

• If you are sick or have been in close contact with someone who has been to a foreign country or has been sick, please stay home.
• Limit the number of people whom attend the shiva to immediate family. Condolences can be sent via social media, text or a phone call.
• We highly recommend that the elderly and those with chronic illnesses avoid funerals and shiva until which time the COVID-19 pandemic has passed.
• Avoid hugging, kissing or even shaking hands with others.
• Employ “social distancing” in your everyday life.
• Use tissues when you sneeze or cough and throw them away in the trash or sneeze/cough directly and snugly into the crook of your arm and away from others. 
• Continue the 20+ second handwashing. 

Our intention is to provide you and your loved ones with the funeral services you require, while managing to keep all of you safe. We have reviewed information from local and federal sources, including the WHO, CDC, the City of Pittsburgh, the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association ( PFDA), National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and KAVOD, and will continue to monitor the situation as changes arise.

From our family to yours, thank you for your business and understanding.

Sharon Ryave Brody, President

Licensed Funeral Director

Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. 

412-621-8282