How to Set Up a Food Tree

Whether a dear friend is having surgery or is expecting a baby, setting up the delivery of hot, delicious meals is a thoughtful gesture that's always appreciated--and a piece of cake to set up.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Ask the potential recipient if he or she is interested in a food tree. Find out about any food allergies and likes and dislikes, and ask how they'd like have their meals delivered: Would they prefer people to just leave meals at the door, come in for a short visit, or sit down and join the family for dinner?
2. Ask friends and family if they would like to join the food tree. Most people are delighted to be able to help in such a fundamental, nurturing way.
3. Set up a two-week schedule after giving people the chance to choose which day of the week they prefer. Since leftovers can be abundant, schedule deliveries for every other day.
4. Create a simple meal when it's your turn. Keep their tastes in mind. Just because you think your cheesy broccoli casserole is the bomb, doesn't mean the family you'll be feeding does.
5. Deliver your meal and know that you've made someone very happy. For bonus points, slip into the kitchen and do the dishes.

Tips & Warnings

• Label all containers so it's easy for your friend to return them to the right people. Also, ask volunteers to include heating instructions.
• Mark which items can be frozen for savoring at a later date.
• One option is to hire a caterer or restaurant to prepare and deliver food.
• Faraway friends and family can order meals from nearby restaurants, or search online for companies that deliver food via overnight mail. See 299 Set Up Online Grocery Shopping.