Meals From The Heart

When you walk into the kitchen of the Ronald McDonald House and a group of volunteers are preparing a home-cooked meal for the families, you can just smell the love in the air.  It is the aromas of a home-cooked meal or freshly baked cookies, and so much more.  It is comfort food that rejuvenates the mind and spirits of families coming home after a long, stressful day at the hospital caring for their loved ones.

“The best part of being a “Meals From The Heart” volunteer is making the lives of guests a little easier, while they are going through difficult times.”
-Casco Bay Sunrise Rotary Club.


More Info
  • We recommend planning to cook for 10-15 people, however, you can call the House the day before your scheduled meal for a more accurate headcount.
  • For Dinner: Groups should arrive between 4 – 4:30 PM So that dinner will be ready around 5:30-6 pm.
  • For Breakfast: Groups should arrive between 7:30-8 AM, so breakfast is ready to be served at 9 am on Saturday and Sunday only.
  • Groups should be limited to 2-5 people.
  • All food must be prepared in the kitchen at the House, with the exception of food prepared in a commercial kitchen.
  • Portland House Only: If you plan to grill, please review our instructions on proper use: Grill Instructions
    • Bangor House does not have an outside grill.

New Volunteer Chefs
  1. Please download and review the Melas From The Heart Program Guidelines. There’s a ton of helpful information in there!
  2. Complete the Volunteer Application and Confidentiality Forms. (Groups should submit one form using the group leader’s information).
  3. Once your application paperwork is received, a staff member will reach out to set up a call to further discuss the program guidelines and next steps.

Returning Volunteer Chefs

We are so excited and appreciate your interest in volunteering again!

Bangor House: Please contact Amy to set up another date.
Email: abickford@rmhcmaine.org
Phone: 207-942-9003

Portland House: Please contact Shanna to set up another date.
Email: sdubay@rmhcamine.org
Phone: 207-780-6282