It’s no secret that a good home-cooked meal helps to relieve stress. A warm, healthy dinner allows families to unwind after a day at the hospital and get the energy they need to continue fighting for their child. Families are encouraged to share their meals in the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms with others, sharing stories and chatting with others in a similar situation. This ‘Meals from the Heart‘ program helps our families experience a feeling of home during trying times.
Meals from the Heart
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro currently supports families in Suffolk County with two Ronald McDonald Family Rooms. One is located in the NICU and one is located in Pediatrics at Stony Brook Children’s where we provide no-cost respite, snacks, meals, laundry, and bathroom amenities. Thousands of families utilize the Family Rooms every year. Many nights, one of the generous local restaurants will deliver fresh, hot meals for families whose children are in the hospital. Our Family Room restaurant sponsors are proud to participate and have a heart for giving.
In 2024, many restaurants donated meals to the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in Stony Brook. Those restaurants include: Bliss, Carnival, La Grova, Pietros, Trattoria, and Villa Sorrento. Check out a list of all our restaurant partners on our Family Room webpage here. Below are some of our restaurant partners who graciously offered a quote or testimonial about what giving back to sick children and families means to them.
The Fifth Season
Chef John and Deborah Urbinati are passionate about crafting meals that are not only fresh and vibrant but also rooted in local, seasonal ingredients. Their menus change with the seasons, offering specialized dishes for holidays and an exceptional four-course wine dinner experience. For the past decade, they have proudly supported the community through their restaurant, providing more than just a dining experience.
“We have been so proud to be a part of the community that donates meals to the families staying at the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Stony Brook University Hospital. It is our honor to bring nourishing, hot meals weekly to those struggling with having a family member receive care at the hospital. It seems such a small gesture on our part, but in the end, it gives comfort to each individual that we touch through our food. In return, it warms our hearts, knowing that we can make a difference in their lives, even if just for a moment. We’re honored to play a small role in making their lives a bit easier, one meal at a time.” – Chef John and Deborah Urbinati
The Curry Club of SāGhar
The Wadhwa family and their dedicated team are honored to continue the legacy of exceptional cuisine and heartfelt hospitality extended to the families at RMHC. For over three decades, The Curry Club at SāGhar has been a beloved institution, celebrated for its diverse menu that transports diners and takes them on a culinary journey.
As a purveyor of Indian Fusion cuisine, The Curry Club at SāGhar recognizes that building a thriving business requires not only vision but also a commitment to fostering a sense of community. By giving back through the provision of nourishing meals, they offer more than just food—they provide love, comfort, and hope. Kulwant, a member of the Wadhwa family, reflects:
“It is an honor to be part of this incredible initiative, knowing that we can help make even a small difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for allowing us to give back in this way and for all the important work RMHC does for our community.”
St. James Pizza & Pasta
This sentiment is at the heart of what Darren McKiernan and Jenny DiPalma offer to the families at Ronald McDonald House Charities. They consider these families an extension of their community, and feel it is a privilege and a pleasure to provide them with mouth-watering, authentic pizza and pasta meals each week. St. James Pizza & Pasta are rewarded through the smiles and enjoyment they see on the faces of the families.
“Nothing fosters connection like sharing a great meal. At St. James Pizza & Pasta, we believe that the smiles and conversations shared over delicious food are what bring families together, even in the midst of today’s busy lives.”
Orto
Kristina and Eric Lombardo expressed:
“We are proud to support the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Stony Brook for many years. Giving back to our community is important to us, and we are honored to contribute to this meaningful charity.”
The menu at Orto highlights the finest Italian-American cuisine, offering a selection of rustic, soul-satisfying dishes made with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients sourced daily.
Elaine’s
Elaine’s in East Setauket has been donating meals to the families at Stony Brook Children’s for quite a while now. Their simple, seasonal Italian dishes combined with classic American fare is warm and inviting.
“It’s an honor and a privilege being part of such a wonderful organization. The Ronald McDonald house has been providing support and care to families for many years with their family room at Stony Brook Hospital and we are happy to be a part of it!”
IXCHEL
iXCHEL’s inspiration comes from the Tulum Beaches, Mayan ruins, the Cenotes (natural wells), vibrancy of colors, textures of fabrics and pottery plus all the beautiful natural stone found in Mexico. Their team has been committed to helping vulnerable families in the hospital for years now and we are so fortunate to have their fresh, delicious food at the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms!
To learn more about our Meals from the Heart Program, please visit our Volunteer Page here.