Etiquette

• When dropping off a meal, plan not to stay more than 10-15 minutes. This will obviously depend on your existing relationship, but it is safer to expect that the meal recipient is not ready to entertain yet.
   
• Arrive at the requested time.
   
• Make enough for leftovers. Freezable meals are also nice.
   
• Don’t forget the extras like drinks, condiments, salad dressing, and dessert!
   
• If there are children in the household, consider including a special toy or treat for them to help with what may be a transitional time.
   
• If you plan to have something delivered (e.g. pizza), make sure to pay for a tip in advance and specify the delivery time.
   
• If possible, deliver your meal in a recyclable or reusable container.
   
• Be sure to label any items that you would like returned to you. Include a large paper bag that the recipient can use to store your items until you can coordinate a pick-up date in the future with the recipient.
   
• Include clear preparation instructions, i.e. "Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees."
   
• Consider including a note or a card to the recipient wishing them well.
   
• Have a map to the recipient’s house and a phone number in the event that something comes up on the day of delivery