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What is Meal Makers?
Meal Makers is a volunteer-based program. Meal Makers come to the Ronald McDonald House to prepare a warm meal for the guest families staying there.
After our guest families spend a long day at the hospital, there’s nothing more appreciated than a home-cooked meal. Get together with friends, family, or co-workers to plan a menu and prepare a comforting evening meal for the people staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
The comfort and warmth of a home-cooked meal and conversation with families and community members give the families the extra support they need during some of their most challenging times.
How does it work? You have three options!
OPTION 1:
Cook in Ronald McDonald House Kitchen: Meal Makers volunteers work in groups (3-5 people in a group) to plan the menu, purchase ingredients, and prepare meals in our fully equipped kitchen. We also have an outdoor grill (seasonal availability).
- All food MUST be prepared and cooked on-site unless it comes directly from a restaurant, grocer, or bakery
- Meals should serve 15-20 people. Meals should have a main dish and at least 2 sides (including protein, carbohydrate, and fruit/vegetable). Beverages and desserts are optional. Meal Makers aren’t expected to accommodate specific dietary restrictions. We recommend offering a range of food options so all families can enjoy something.
- You will be responsible for supplying all the food and ingredients needed for your meal. Our kitchen is fully equipped with two stoves, cookware, utensils, serving dishes, and supplies for you to use.
- Plan to finish preparing your meal by 5 p.m. (You don’t need to stay to serve the families. They eat at their leisure)
Pro Tip: Creativity is welcome when planning your menu! If you’re unsure what to cook, you can check to see if your date is a National Food Holiday and plan around that!
Looking for more meal inspiration? Check out our Pinterest board!
OPTION 2:
Order a Meal from your favorite local restaurant & have it delivered to the House. Our delivery address is 780 West Ferry St., Buffalo.
OPTION 3:
Mail us a gift certificate or gift card to your favorite restaurant that we may use to purchase dinner for the families.
Set up a time/date to prepare a meal at our Ronald McDonald House: To check Meal Maker openings and confirm your spot, view the Meal Makers calendar below.
Questions? Call Katie Conway at (716) 883-1177 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or email [email protected].
