Aspiring Chef? Love to Bake? Love hosting dinners?

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In many communities and cultures, it is traditional for friends and neighbors to prepare meals for their loved ones who are caring for a sick family member. It is an act of kindness that translates feelings of concern into a tangible expression of human compassion. When parents return to the Ronald McDonald House after a long day at the hospital it is nice to have a hot, delicious home-cooked meal prepared by for them. One of our most popular community group opportunities is our meal program called "Feasts from the Heart" . This is where you cook a meal for families staying at the Orange County Ronald McDonald House.

We are very thankful that so many people contribute to our "Feasts from the Heart" program and our schedule books quickly. We would love for you to call our office to schedule a meal or baking day. You can give us a call at (714) 639-3600 to see when a time is available. Once you have scheduled your meal, please consider thefollowing guidelines, as they will help you plan your meal for all of our guests.

• Plan to cook for approximately 30-35 people. The house contains 20 guest rooms with varying occupancy.
• Please be aware that not all families show up to eat at once. Few families appear at the onset, while others trickle in as the evening progresses. In addition, many families are unable to return to the House until much later at night and will re-heat leftovers. Families also frequently make a plate to take to the hospital to their child--they really appreciate the home cooked meal over hospital food!
• Approximately 6-8 participants in the kitchen are optimal, but up to 12 are allowed. The kitchen has three cooking stations; however more than 8 makes for tight quarters and a potential hazard. If your group is larger, consider dividing the preparation and clean-up or schedule two different meals.
• The best time for serving dinner is between 6:00 - 7:00 PM. You can arrive as early as 4:00 PM, or anytime after. Important note: Please plan on staying long enough to serve, then put away the leftovers, and clean up! We only have one staff on duty at night and really appreciate your assistance. Your whole team should be ready to leave at approximately 7:30 PM.
• It is required by our global policies that you cook on-site (or purchase the food at a restaurant). The kitchen is equipped with all necessary cooking utensils and most basic ingredients. It makes the experience much more personal and families enjoy meeting and thanking the cooks.

• Please help us keep the kitchen clean and inviting by: washing, drying, and putting away all items you used while baking, emptying the kitchen trash if it is full, and sweeping and/or mopping the kitchen floor as needed.