The Ronald McDonald House provides a haven for families who have traveled to Ottawa for their children's medical treatment. It's a place of support, comfort, and community during incredibly difficult times. And for us, it was an opportunity to give back, to share our culture, and to offer a small taste of home.
Our mission? To bring the vibrant flavors of the Philippines to the Ronald McDonald House kitchen. On the menu: Pancit, Adobo, and Lumpia – a Filipino culinary trifecta guaranteed to tantalize taste buds and warm hearts.
The kitchen buzzed with activity as we unpacked our ingredients and donned our aprons. The air quickly filled with the savory scent of garlic and onions, the foundation of so many Filipino dishes. We worked together, a symphony of chopping, stirring, and frying. Some of us were seasoned cooks, while others were enthusiastic amateurs, but we were all united by a shared purpose: to create a delicious and comforting meal for the families staying at the House.
"The reactions were heartwarming. Smiles spread across faces as families tasted the familiar flavors of home, or for some, experienced Filipino cuisine for the first time. Children eagerly devoured the Lumpia, while parents savored the comforting taste of Adobo and Pancit. The clatter of cutlery and the murmur of conversations filled the dining room, creating a sense of community and connection.."
Sharing Filipino food at the Ronald McDonald House wasn't just about providing a meal; it was about sharing a piece of ourselves, our culture, and our hearts. It was a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the simple act of sharing a meal can bring comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging.
Leaving the Ronald McDonald House that evening, our hearts were full. We had gone there to give, but we had received so much more in return. The warmth we felt wasn't just from the kitchen; it was the warmth of human connection, the warmth of giving back, and the warmth of knowing that we had made a small difference in the lives of families facing extraordinary challenges. It was a January day well spent, a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact.
Check out some images from the day!
