Winter storms and extreme cold can arrive suddenly, bringing dangers like heavy snow, freezing rain, power outages, frostbite, and hazardous travel conditions. Recently, Catholic Charities of New York shared a set of practical tips for staying safe during severe winter weather, from keeping phones charged and homes winterized, to preparing emergency supplies and checking in on neighbors, especially those most vulnerable.
These preparations remind us that life’s challenges, whether natural events or unexpected personal circumstances, require both practical readiness today and thoughtful planning for tomorrow.
The Importance of Planning Ahead
Just as you store emergency supplies and make a winter readiness plan for your household, preparing your estate plan is an important way to care for your family’s future. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s a responsible and loving step anyone can take to ensure that loved ones are cared for and that your wishes are clear.
According to national estate planning guidance, everyone benefits from key documents like a will or trust, powers of attorney, and a healthcare directive. These tools make sure your finances and family members are protected, and that decisions can be carried out according to your intentions without confusion or legal delay.
Tools to Make Estate Planning Accessible
To help Catholics and supporters plan responsibly with faith-centered guidance, Catholic Charities of New York partners with two powerful planning platforms:
- FreeWill — A free online tool that guides you through creating a legal will and other basic estate planning documents. It’s secure, easy to use, and available at no cost through Catholic Charities of New York.
- MyCatholicWill.com — Designed specifically to align your final wishes with Catholic values, this free service helps you craft a will that reflects both your personal desires and your faith.
These tools make it simple for individuals and families to take meaningful steps in securing their legacy, just as winter preparedness steps help secure their safety in the present.
Caring for Family in the Short and Long Term
Preparing for a winter storm, stocking three days of supplies, knowing safe travel options, setting up carbon monoxide detectors, means thinking ahead for your household’s immediate safety. Planning your estate, in the same spirit, means thinking ahead for your family’s long-term emotional and financial security.
Whether you’re protecting against winter’s storms or looking ahead to life’s next chapter, now is a good time to:
- Refresh your family emergency plan.
- Check that critical documents like your will are in place.
- Make sure those you love are provided for and your wishes are clearly expressed.
Start Today
Extreme weather shows us how quickly conditions can change. Estate planning prepares your loved ones for life’s uncertainties too. With FreeWill and MyCatholicWill, you can begin today, aligning your plans with both practical needs and your values.
Your family’s well-being matters now, and it matters in the years ahead. By pairing everyday preparedness with thoughtful estate planning, you’re making a powerful choice to care for those you love — no matter what storms lie ahead.
