FUNERAL CONSUMERS
ALLIANCE OF HOUSTON

A non-profit, non-sectarian, volunteer run, consumer educational association
serving a 100-mile radius of Houston

  

Contact Us

 

Links
 

Application

2006 Funeral Home Price Survey

2003 Funeral Home Price Survey

 

The Funeral Consumers Alliance of Houston is an association of consumers from all walks of life who want to be informed about their funeral choices, often so they may seek simple, dignified alternatives to the elaborate and expensive funeral services constantly promoted by the funeral industry.

The practice of group planning for funeral arrangements started early in the last century in the Farm Grange movement of the Northwestern United States. These early "burial
co-ops" evolved and spread into urban areas, where a sense of social activism emerged when these groups began to compare their experiences. After a national organization was formed (then called The Continental Association of Funeral and Memorial Societies), it joined with other consumer groups to support passage of the FTC Funeral Rule. This landmark in consumer protection has changed the industry--forcing funeral homes to provide detailed price lists to all, making greater choices available in funeral arrangements and providing federal enforcement to ensure the rules are followed.

Today, about 400,000 consumers are members of the Funeral Consumers Alliance, through our local and national offices. Democratically-elected, boards of the local and the national organizations welcome all who wish to volunteer time and effort in this crucial mission.

Benefits we provide:

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Information and Education ~ regarding requirements and options in making near-death and after-death arrangements
 
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Consumer Protection ~ through education, legislation and action
 
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Forms ~ to pre-plan your wishes regarding near-death and after-death arrangements
 
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Identification/Instruction Cards ~ to carry in your wallet or purse
 
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Newsletters ~ twice a year we mail members a newsletter concerning the FCA and consumer issues
 
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Annual Meetings ~ continues the education process, a chance to meet other members, hear interesting speakers, and an opportunity to volunteer
 
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Transfer Arrangements ~ to the nearest Funeral Consumers Alliance or Memorial Society nearest your new residence if you move from Houston.

 
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National Organization ~ supports local affiliates and promotes federal legislation to protect consumers
 
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Speakers Bureau ~ we have experienced speakers available to speak to your Church, Civic, or Professional Group
 
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"Before I Go, You Should Know" end-of-life planning kit ~ Comes with state specific Directive to Physicians and Surrogates (Living Will) and Durable Medical Power of Attorney, plus a fill-in-the-blanks booklet for your funeral plans.

 
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Volunteer Opportunities ~ we always need volunteers with office and computer skills as well as Board Members and Board Advisors.