Provide A Meal

One of the most popular ways volunteers help our families is through our Meals of Love program. When families are going through difficult times, there’s nothing like the comfort of a home-cooked meal to come home to at the end of longs days in the hospital setting. The Meals of Love program is also a great way for groups – friend groups, work groups, church groups, civic groups – to give back while at the same time spending time together.

It’s easy to sign up! Simply create a free account on our Meal Train calendar and schedule a time that works for you and your group. If the date you have in mind is not available, we welcome you to donate a meal that can be frozen and served on a day when there is not a meal planned.

Here are a few quick tips:

+The average number of people to cook for at the Washington Avenue House is 15-20, and the average number at the Gateway House is 28-30. Because we never know from day to day how many people will be staying with us, we encourage a quick phone call a day or so in advance to check each House's occupancy.

+Kitchens at both Houses are equipped with pots, pans, baking sheets, and cooking utensils. We have a pantry with most staples (flour, sugar, seasonings, salad dressings) but ask that you bring all main ingredients.

+Please note that our families may or may not be at the House during the time the meal is served. Their children’s medical needs dictate mealtimes. Rest assured, though, that the ability to warm up a home-cooked meal provides just as much comfort to families even if you’re not here to see it.

+There is a gas grill available for volunteer use at the Washington Avenue House.

+We ask that breakfast is ready at 8 a.m., brunch at 10 a.m., lunch at 12 noon, and dinner at 6 p.m.

+To avoid duplication of meals through the week and to help families plan, please be sure to include your menu when signing up or at least one week before your meal.

+Meal groups should not exceed 8-10 people.

Questions? Call 812-402-7642