Good News Tucson - A Family Values Magazine

A Truly Helping Hand by Brenda Hoth

When a friend or family member becomes ill, we want to help. But how can we truly be a blessing to someone in need? One way is to bring a meal - but even there, how can we be the most helpful? Here are some tips on meeting the needs of someone who has been sick, hospitalized, has recently had a baby, or has lost a loved one.

What to Prepare

When planning a meal, consider dietary restrictions. For a new mom, spicy foods may be off limit. If someone has recently been hospitalized, be sure to ask if there are foods they need to avoid. It would be disappointing to put your time into a meal that cannot be enjoyed. Often a large batch of chicken soup, as old fashioned as it sounds, makes the best meal.

Disposable Meals

When you're not feeling great, nothing is worse than a sink full of dirty dishes. Instead of sending a meal in your own pots and pans, purchase inexpensive and disposable foil or plastic containers. Also, add paper plates, cups, napkins and plastic cutlery for a completely disposable meal that will save the person recovering from having to do dishes and remembering where to return the pots!

Time to Eat

Find out when the best time to deliver the meal would be. Since meal times vary, try to bring the meal shortly before their usual dinner time, especially if there are young children in the family who are accustomed to eating at a certain time.

How Many Mouths?

Be sure to prepare enough food for the entire family. You may have a small family and are used to making small meals, but if you are preparing dinner for a larger family, remember to send enough.

Some for Now, Some for Later

Since you're already cooking, why not double the batch and prepare a meal to tuck away in your friend's freezer. That way they can enjoy your meal tonight and have a second meal waiting.

The Morning After

Consider also sending a box of cereal or frozen waffles, too. That way, not only is dinner covered, but breakfast, too!

By following these simple pointers you can truly be a helping hand to a friend in need.