The Hospice Education Institute (HEI) is a nonprofit organization serving a wide range of individuals and organizations interested in improving and expanding hospice and palliative care throughout the United States and around the world. The Institute works to inform, educate, and support people seeking or providing care for the dying and the bereaved, or coping with advanced illness. HOSPICELINK is a toll-free service offered by HEI staff that provides information on available hospice and palliative care programs in the United States and general information about the principles and practices of good hospice and palliative care. HEI has a Small Gift Program which makes immediate gifts to hospice patients and families for nonmedical needs, as identified by local hospice staff members. These gifts are made within two working days after the request is reviewed and approved. Books and pamphlets are available from HEI on hospice-related subjects.