At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio, our mission extends beyond simply offering a place to sleep. We’re committed to supporting the overall well-being of every family who stays with us. This summer, we launched the Heart & Home Wellness Table Series, a new program that brings this mission to life through meals that nourish both the body and the mind.
Thanks to a generous grant from CoverMyMeds, and the continued support of our volunteers, donors, and culinary team, this weekly dinner series provides families with not just a warm meal, but also community, education, and comfort.
Wellness Served Weekly
Every Wednesday evening, families at the House enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal infused with nutritional education. Each dinner highlights a different nutritional focus based on insights from Nationwide Children’s Hospital nutritionists. Whether it’s fiber-rich ingredients, omega-3s, or antioxidant-packed foods, the meals are carefully planned to support the health of the children and their families.
Families are introduced to these ideas in simple, approachable ways. Cute coloring pages of produce introduce fruits and vegetables, flip decks highlight the ingredients’ health benefits, and families receive colorful recipe cards to take home, allowing them to recreate the meals long after their stay.
Head Chef Blair Arms shared, “It’s not just about feeding people. It’s about introducing something new that might inspire them even after they leave. It’s a creative and meaningful part of our work.”
While Blair helped to kickstart the program, Sous Chef David Shaw is now leading the series every Wednesday night.
Chef Blair and Chef David pictured right
A Program with Purpose
The Heart & Home series began with one big question: how can we support families even after they leave the Ronald McDonald House?
“We wanted to do more than meet basic needs,” said Kate Becker, Chief Program Officer at RMHC of Central Ohio. “We saw an opportunity to help families build confidence around nutrition and cooking. These small lessons can have a big impact on health and healing.”
The idea came to life quickly, and at the very first dinner, the response was clear. The event served 15% more people than an average dinner. Families expressed excitement about trying something new, especially dishes like seared salmon, and were eager to take the recipes home. One family shared on Instagram, “What a great idea!! We love being able to try new foods at our home away from home!”
Powered by Volunteers Like You
Each week’s meal is a team effort. Sometimes it’s prepared by our in-house culinary team and regular volunteers. Other times, our Team Cuisine program brings in corporate and community groups who cook alongside our chefs. Either way, every dinner is made possible by the generosity and energy of people like you.
Volunteers often share nutrition facts, hand out recipe cards, and connect with families during this series. These small moments help create a welcoming, educational environment that makes a lasting impression.
Get Involved
The Heart & Home Wellness Table Series is only possible thanks to the incredible support of our volunteer community. If you’re looking for a hands-on way to give back, this is a meaningful opportunity to directly support families during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
Sign up for our Team Cuisine program and help prepare a meal that brings warmth, nutrition, and care to the families staying with us.
Learn more and sign up here: rmhc-centralohio.org/provide-a-meal
Together, we’re nourishing families and their well-being.
