Feeding the Soul
For the families here, a meal time may be the only respite
from the constant strain of a child’s hospitalization.
That’s why at the Ronald McDonald House, we make it our business to provide delicious meals, three times a day, every single day. With a free and nutritious meal, our guests are granted a much-needed moment for self-care and restoration. But we couldn’t do this without our amazing network of community support and volunteers who helped us serve over 250,000 meals in the last year! With meals offered at no charge to families, we rely on this help to offset the costs of our meal service program.
Serve A Meal
A group of up to 12 is all it takes! Help sustain this vital service while simultaneously bringing your team closer
together. Meal service support is $500 per meal, with donations, grants, and employee matches all welcome.
Things to Know
Group Limit
We are limited to 12 volunteers in the kitchen due to safety. We can try to accommodate larger groups with additional activities during the meal service.
Age Limit
We welcome volunteers of 16 years old and up.
Shifts
Each meal service shift is four hours which includes a tour of the House, the opportunity to prepare and serve a meal to our families, and clean-up following the conclusion of the meal service.
Logos
Your logo will be displayed at the House on the day of service. Your team is welcome to represent your company or community group with logo apparel during your shift.
“The hours spent were very fulfilling, and this was an event where you could truly see the difference being made.”
– CORPORATE VOLUNTEER, TCWGLOBAL
FEATURED GROUP VOLUNTEER
Filling Plates
and Hearts
Food isn’t just fuel—it nourishes the soul. When the dedicated volunteers from TCWGlobal serve the families at the Ronald McDonald House, they provide more than a warm meal—they offer a taste of comfort…
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do we serve the meals?
Our times are:
- Breakfast: 7–8:30 a.m.
- Lunch: 12–1:30 p.m.
- Dinner: 6–7:30 p.m.
You will need to be available before, during, and after meal service times to help prep, serve, and clean up. Due to the increasing need, meal service hours have been extended to ensure residents and day visitors have access to meals. Please see the Meal Program Reservation Form to submit a reservation request.
How many families will we serve?
We typically serve over 200 people per meal service.
Where do I park?
Please note that due to construction at the Rady Children’s Hospital campus, parking is limited. Our staff will work with your group to identify the best parking solutions. Carpooling is recommended to reduce the number of spots needed.
It’s our first time providing a meal. What if we need help?
Assigned Food Service Meal Staff will provide direction and guidance to ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Who develops the menu for the meal?
Our Food Service staff create menus each week based on the donations we have received, so we will have all the ingredients needed to make a delicious and nutritious meal.
Can our group bring in our own food?
Due to health requirements, we may not be able to accommodate this request. Please contact our meals and activities group for more food options.
If we don’t want to serve a meal, are there other activities we can do during meal services?
Yes, there are many ways to bring joy to families – host an activity table, play an instrument, put on an ice cream sundae bar, and more! Please contact our meals and activities group with your desired activity and a House staff member will contact you to discuss it.
Are we allowed to bring a photographer or videographer in to document our volunteer group?
Yes, we will need to know in advance for photo consent purposes for our guests.
Are there some things that are not allowed?
We are a smoke, vape, and alcohol-free location.
Is there a dress code?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes and a hat. If a hat is not available, a hairnet will be provided. We will provide aprons.
Can I bring in baked goods or make cookies at the House?
Due to health requirements, we are not allowed to accept food made from outside the House. Volunteers can come to the House and make cookies or other goods onsite.
What does my $500 donation provide for the House?
The $500 donation helps cover the cost of ingredients, utilities, and staff time. Your group would be providing the volunteers where you would help prepare, cook, serve, and clean up. So, you do not need to purchase any of the food items or ingredients.
Our meal program is designed to be as self-sustainable as possible and with the rising cost of goods and utilities we are prioritizing groups who are able to financially contribute to the program, for 1 meal sponsorship that is $500. We welcome donations, grants, employee match, and employer match volunteer time as a form of payment.
What if I Have Additional Questions?
Email us at meals.activities@rmhcsd.org