Cooking for Families is one of the most meaningful ways to support families staying at Ronald McDonald House Ireland.
When a child is in hospital, parents are often exhausted, stressed and juggling hospital visits with everyday life. A warm, home-cooked meal gives families a moment to pause, sit together and feel cared for.
That’s where Cooking for Families comes in.
Through this programme, volunteer groups come into the House to prepare meals for families staying with us. It’s practical, hands-on support that families genuinely feel.
Cooking for Families is especially popular with:
Individuals and small community groups also take part throughout the year.
Corporate groups are asked to fundraise towards their Cooking for Families day and cover the cost of ingredients. Community and individual volunteers are not required to fundraise, but all groups are responsible for shopping for their own menu.
Cooking for Families days follow a simple, well-organised structure so everything runs smoothly for volunteers and families alike.
Groups arrive at the House at 10am, receive a short induction, and aim to serve food at around 1pm.
As a Cooking for Families group, you will:
Groups should plan to cook for approximately 35 to 40 people. During school holidays, numbers can be higher.
To reduce waste and make things easier on the day, we ask groups to prepare one main course. Starters or desserts are always welcome but optional. Families are happy to share the same meal together.
To protect the health of families staying in the House, there are a few important guidelines:
These rules help us protect immunocompromised children and ensure the House remains a safe space for families.
Families appreciate simple, comforting meals that are easy to enjoy together.
We’ll talk through your menu with you in advance to make sure it works well for families.
Corporate groups are asked to fundraise towards their Cooking for Families day. This support helps cover the running costs of the House and ensures we can continue offering this programme year-round.
All groups, whether fundraising or not, are responsible for shopping for their ingredients in advance of their visit.
Full details on fundraising and booking are provided when you register.
Cooking for Families is about more than food.
For many volunteers, it’s one of the most rewarding things they do as a team.
If you’d like to take part in Cooking for Families, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Once booked, our team will guide you through everything you need to know, from menus and fundraising to what to expect on the day.
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