Meal Train® for New Beginnings Meals

Special Instructions

Welcome, Meal Volunteers! Thank you for providing a meal for our residents! Your generosity helps create a sense of home and community for those we serve. **If this is your first time preparing a meal with us,** please email **[Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org](mailto:Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org)** to schedule a brief kitchen orientation. We currently serve **approximately 25–30 people**, including residents in our Medical Respite Program. ### Meal Preparation Options **Option 1: Prepare Off-Site** * Cook the meal at your own location and deliver it to New Beginnings by **5:00 PM**. **Option 2: Prepare On-Site** * Cook in our kitchen using your own ingredients, pantry items, or purchased supplies. * Please arrive between **3:00–4:00 PM** (or earlier if your meal requires additional cooking time). ### Planning Ahead Please email your recipe and ingredient list to **[Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org](mailto:Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org)** at least **one week before** your scheduled meal. This helps us coordinate pantry supplies and avoid duplicate purchases. A typical meal includes **a main dish containing meat, a vegetarian vegetable side dish, bread, and a sweet dessert**. If you have questions about portions or menu ideas, we're happy to help. Dinner is typically served at **5:00 PM**. Our kitchen is stocked with: * Pots and pans * Serving utensils * Basic spices * Gloves * Hand-washing station You're also welcome to use fresh or frozen vegetables from our garden when available—just ask! ### While Serving For food safety, we ask all volunteers serving food to wear a head covering, such as a baseball cap or visor. We have visors available if you need one. ### Meal Ideas Our residents enjoy meals such as: * Lasagna * Fajitas * Turkey chili * Chicken and dumplings * Casseroles * Beef stew * Fried chicken * Pasta dishes * BBQ * Breakfast for dinner Please remember that some residents have dental concerns, so softer foods are always appreciated. If serving salads, consider avoiding hard toppings like croutons or very crunchy raw vegetables. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out at **[Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org](mailto:Linda@NewBeginningsNWA.org)**. Thank you for sharing your time, talents, and a wonderful meal with our community. Your kindness truly makes a difference.