I was at a shop and the lady, who was so much more clever than I, was given 3 things that were salvedged from a fire. A pair of sleeping pants (cotton), a partially burned crocheted afghan, and a pair of flannel shorts. It was the mom that died and they needed 3 things for the 3 children to keep to remember their mom. She used the shorts and pants to make a lap quilt (she had to add extra fabric) and used the afghan to make 2 decorative pillows. We were all crying and I can't imagine how grateful those children must have been when they recieved them.
I wouldn't worry about what you make, they will love it. Maybe you could just make a couple of table runners or a small wall hanging. I would think even pot holders, towel hangers or trivets would appreciated. Just something to hold on to. And the scraps you could sew into a pillowcase and donate it to a dog shelter for a bed. You are a dear to do this for the family. Good luck ~ Pat