Take Away Program

Thank you for your interest in providing a sack breakfast or snack for the families who are staying at Cincinnati’s Ronald McDonald House. This program provides comfort to the House guest families who are supporting their sick children and often don’t have the time, funds or energy to prepare a quick meal before heading out for doctors’ appointments. The Take Away Program is an ideal activity for youth/teen groups. It can be prepared in your own setting and dropped off at the house anytime. These guidelines will help you plan a successful experience.

• Prepare at least 25 bags with at least 2 items in each. Brown/white paper lunch sacks are preferred.
• Unless you are doing the baking at Ronald McDonald House, please, do not include homemade items in sacks.
• Please pack non-perishable healthy foods. A treat is fine, as long as it is the ‘extra’ rather than the meal.
• We always appreciate donations of fresh fruit or vegetables, but please do not include this in the bags. Make this a separate donation.
• Items must be individually packaged for immediate consumption. No multiple serve packages or anything that requires heating/refrigeration.
• Include any plastic ware required (i.e. a spoon with a fruit cup) to make it easier for the families.
• Napkins or hand wipes are greatly appreciated.
• Please label each sack as to its contents and the date packed.
• Please label any sack that has items containing nuts.
• Don’t forget to fill out a donation form or have community service forms* signed while you are here. We allow 2 hours of community service per 25 bags.

Here are a few suggestions, but your ideas are welcome!

For the safety of our House children and parents, anyone in your group who is coughing, feverish, has a runny nose or has been exposed to a contagious disease should not visit the House or handle food going into the sacks. Some children are in isolation or have immune-suppressed bodies and cannot fight even the simplest cold. There are gloves available for all visitors, and we encourage frequent hand-washing.

Thank you again for your generous offer to provide a take away treat for our families! Being able to grab a sack and run off to the hospital, put together by people who care, is a real gift to our families.

Sincerely,

Lisa Davis
Meals and Activities Coordinator
513-636-2760
ldavis@RMHouse.org