March Musings & What’s happening in April at The Mark Preece Family House.

Thyme for Dinner – Cooking For A Cause

Marisa Mariella has been bringing both young people and seniors to The Mark Preece Family House since 2023 to host Thyme For Dinner meals under the banner of Cooking for a Cause.

As part of Cooking for a Cause, she has worked with several groups and dozens of volunteers including the Donnici Social Club, ABRAR Trauma and Mental Health Services, Battlefield New Horizons Seniors Club, and, most frequently, the YMCA Newcomer Youth Mentorship Program.

Marisa has also helped to raise the profile of The Mark Preece Family House to her viewers by bringing her cooking show, Marisa’s Easy Kitchen, to The House.

An educator for almost 35 years, Marisa had been a classroom teacher, student success teacher, guidance counsellor and Head of Student Services. After her retirement, she turned her love of cooking into a second career as host of Marisa’s Easy Kitchen and advocate for community involvement. She believes volunteerism is central to a healthy community and personal wellness.

Offered through the YMCA Newcomer Youth Centre, the Mentorship Program provides young people with information and support in accessing social services, and community resources. Youth are also given the opportunity to participate in activities, helping them meet their peers, develop new friendships, and get involved in the community.

Who’s hosting Thyme for Dinner?

Here’s what we had cooking in March!

March has been a busy month for Thyme For Dinner!

Christian Public Service (Canada) (March 10 & 24), Rockton Lions Club (March 5) and the Retired Nurses of St. Joe’s (March 26) all returned for their regular dinners.

Volunteers from the YMCA Newcomer Youth Mentorship Program, led by Marisa Mariella returned this month as well (March 25 and 27), helping MPFH to provide almost a full week of meals. The Reynolds Family from Thunder Bay, guests of the MPFH, also decided that, in addition to donating some much-needed supplies, they would host their own Thyme for Dinner (March 23rd).

Thank you to all these incredible groups for providing a delicious, home-cooked meal to our families at a time when they need it most. Click on the link below if you or your business would like to support this much-loved program.

A note from one of our Hospital partners, Mable

As a spine Nurse Practitioner on 6 West at the Hamilton General, we often have emergent patients from out of town whose families are overwhelmed with finding comfortable accommodations. The many families I have referred to the Mark Preece Family House always have positive feedback and are often speechless regarding their outstanding experience.

The accommodations are warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed to ease the burdens of those going through difficult times. The staff’s compassion and dedication make a world of difference, ensuring families have a comfortable and supportive place to stay, which is truly appreciated! 

Thank you for Adopting a Day!

Our recent & upcoming Adopt-a-Day donors:

March 8: Donated by Sue Smith

In memory of William Roy Douglas Smith, our beloved Boo, who passed one year ago today. Loved and missed by David, Sue, Ryan and Lindsay Smith and Lindsay Gerrard.

March 22: Donated by Janet Lachance

Find your joy!

April 2: Donated by Cheryl Sajkowski

For my wonderful husband Steve, you are so missed.

April 12: Donated by Neil & Linda Smith

To our Dad and Papa, Joseph Falco, we miss you every day.

April 25: Donated by Lucy Morin

In loving memory of my husband Phillip on his heavenly birthday.

April 29: Sandy & Jane Craik

Happy Birthday Jane Craik!