Fresh Food chef, football players cook for Ronald McDonald House guests

A Grand Valley team effort helped families at the Ronald McDonald House in Grand Rapids enjoy home-cooked meals.

In April, Paul Mixa, chef at Fresh Food Co., and Allison Adams, assistant professor of hospitality and tourism management, led a team of Laker football players in preparing meals for the 40 guests who were staying at the house on Cedar Street while their children received medical care at nearby hospitals.

The football players participate in “Athletes Who Care,” a program designed by the athletic department to provide community service opportunities for student-athletes. The athletic department purchased food for the meals.

“We were all very happy to help with such a special cause,” Mixa said. “Families stay here while their loved ones receive medical care; it was nice to be able to provide them with healthy, home-style meals while they’re away from home.”

Adams planned the menus based on the budget provided by the athletic department. Meals were brought to the house three different days in April including Easter Sunday. She and Mixa plan to participate again in the fall and spring.