On March 6, The Culinary Institute of America hosted a commencement ceremony for their most recent Associates graduating class in Hyde Park, NY. Taylor Hanson, one of the 2019 Jennie Foundation Culinary Arts Scholarship recipients, was a member of this graduating class. We were privileged to attend this wonderful ceremony, and to meet Taylor’s family, who had traveled to New York especially for this event. We were also introduced to David McCue, Professor of Culinary Arts at the CIA. Chef McCue originated the concept of the Side-Towel Scholarships the CIA awards to students in financial difficulty. “These are good kids, that work hard, but almost don’t make it, just because of stupid money”, he said when he thanked us for sponsoring the scholarships. “We wanted to see if we could help them before they had to leave school.”

Also in March, the March Jennie Day Meal consisted of Baked Ziti and Meatballs, with Garlic Bread, Salad, and Chocolate Chip Cookies for dessert. We’d like to thank Elaina Martin for her sponsorship of the March Meal. Unfortunately, we have no photos of the meal to share this month; due to the recent Covid-19 outbreak, the Ronald McDonald House was limiting the access of visitors, so this month we cooked at home and simply dropped the food at the House. Also, we were unable to bring the customary monthly meal to the oncology and PICU wards at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, as the hospital itself is taking extra measures to limit outside exposure and protect their young patients. While this was disappointing, we fully understand and appreciate the efforts being made by the nurses and staff to keep the children safe.

Finally, this week we received an e-mail from the staff of the Ronald McDonald House. They are asking for additional help due to the impact Covid-19 is having on their meal program, supplies, and fund-raising events. Please check their website, https://give.rmh-ghv.org/campaigns/14450-help-our-house-from-your-home, for information on how you can help them continue to deliver the essential services they provide to families dealing with serious childhood illness. As always, we thank you for your support.