The Chef-Led Program aligns with our organizational goals in several key areas:

1. Alignment with Other Houses: Many Houses across Canada and the US have successfully transitioned to a Chef-led program, and this model has proven to be highly effective.

2. Health and Safety Standards: By purchasing groceries centrally, we gain greater control over food quality, storage conditions, and overall adherence to health and safety standards.

3. Time Savings for Groups: The new program eliminates the need for groups to invest time in recipe research, quantity calculations, and grocery shopping, thus reducing barriers and allowing more groups to participate.

4. Variety of Cuisines: The families staying at RMH BC are diverse, so we want to be able to provide meals that are inclusive of all cultures by providing unique menus. The Chef will be selecting the menus based on what is available and in season.

5. Reducing Food Waste: Having a chef carefully curate menus will allow us to reduce food waste by repurposing any leftovers to make additional meals and work with the rising food costs.

6. Impact-driven Experience: Think of it as a cooking class that gives back – what could be a more rewarding way to learn new culinary skills?

Yes, however, if you don’t have the budget for it, you can set up an online fundraising page to cover the amount instead! 

Food is one of our most requested supports and unsurprisingly also one of our biggest expenses with the average cost per plate being $15. This amount allows us to provide families with approachable and diverse meals that also meet their nutritional needs. 

We’re so grateful for the many groups who have remained dedicated to our Family Meals Program over the years. If you’re looking for another way to contribute, you can also consider putting together Grab N Go Bags or Welcome Bags at your workplace or home! The comfort and convenience of having pre-packaged snacks and toiletries are much appreciated by the families that stay with us. 

Alumni families – no charge/can choose to fundraise

Ronald McDonald House Canada National Mission Partners – discounted participation rates and/or waived fees

Yes! Your House Engagement Fee is fully tax receiptable.

Absolutely! Setting up a fundraising page is an easy way to collect donations online from family and friends before you cook at the House. By raising funds through a bake sale, trivia night, or other idea, you’re supporting more than just a meal, you’re helping to create a feeling of home for families who are many miles away from their own homes.

We no longer require proof of vaccination, however, if you or anyone in your group feels unwell, we kindly ask them to stay home.

Groups making dinner will have the opportunity to eat the meal they make. For groups making breakfast or lunch, however, we cannot guarantee that there will be enough for food, so please plan accordingly. 

Yes, feel free to capture your group in action and share away! Don’t forget to tag us: @rmhbc. Keep in mind that our families are at home – please refrain from taking any photos or videos of families.

We require a minimum two weeks notice to reschedule or cancel your Family Meal. Although your House Engagement Fee will not be refunded, we will find another date available for you to book. This will require another donation to ensure we can keep food on the table for families.

Families rely on this essential program to help relieve the emotional and financial burdens of having to plan and prepare what they’re going to eat before, during, and after long days at the hospital, which is why it is so important that meals are consistently provided.

As the demand for participating in the Family Meals program is high, we will hold your preferred date for one week, however, if we have not received your House Engagement Fee by that time, we will release the date to another group. 

Due to the popularity of the program, we can only accommodate up to 2 bookings per year for corporate groups. Please connect with our team for additional information on other corporate engagement opportunities.

We welcome volunteers age 18 and up.