Feeding Families Foundation Expands Critical Meal Program for Parents at Yale New Haven Children's Hospital

Nourishing Families in Crisis: A Deeper Look into the Parent Plate Program

In a remarkable initiative aimed at alleviating the stress of parents with critically ill children, the Feeding Families Foundation has announced the expansion of its Parent Plate Program at Yale New Haven Children's Hospital (YNHCH). This nonprofit organization, dedicated to combating food insecurity among caregivers, recently celebrated the milestone of providing over 2,000 meals. The expansion introduces critical support for parents in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (PCICU).

The movement behind the Parent Plate Program is poignant and personal for the founders. Co-founder Jeff Dorman shared his family's experience after their daughter was diagnosed with leukemia shortly after her second birthday. They vividly remembered the anxiety and uncertainty of hospital life, where the focus shifted entirely to their child's wellbeing. Nevertheless, this hardship highlighted a significant gap in the support available to caregivers, who often go hungry or feel isolated during such stressful times.

To celebrate this expansion and raise awareness, the Foundation organized its First Annual Strength in Numbers Fashion Show, which took place at District NHV on June 7, 2025. This event was not merely a display of fashion; it was a cultural gathering that emphasized community solidarity. Keynote speaker Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro rallied support for families navigating pediatric illnesses, reiterating the importance of holistic well-being during these challenging times. The event attracted community members, healthcare professionals, and supporters, creating an environment of inspiration and collaboration.

Attendees at the fashion show were treated to a one-of-a-kind experience that included a pizza-inspired runway collection from renowned designer Justin Haynes. With over 300 community members in attendance, the show illustrated the power and influence of art, fashion, and creativity to address urgent social needs. As Michael Pollack, the founder of the New Haven Pizza Club, stated, the evening was about infusing culture with philanthropy, demonstrating that love and community can effect meaningful change.

The partnership with YNHCH has been essential to this program's success. Dr. Matthew Bizzarro, chief medical officer at YNHCH, expressed gratitude for the Foundation's efforts, underscoring how the Parent Plate Program alleviates parental stress by ensuring that caregivers receive meals when they need them the most. This partnership allows parents to stay focused on their child's recovery without the concern of hunger or financial stress.

The Parent Plate Program initially launched in early 2024, providing two meals per day to caregivers staying in the hospital with their children, particularly on the pediatric hematology/oncology floor. The logistics of the program are designed for efficiency: parents can easily order food for themselves when placing an order for their child. Simply put, the goal is to feed caregivers, reduce stress levels, and allow parents to foster their child's healing journey without being preoccupied with their own hunger.

To ensure the sustainability of the program, the Feeding Families Foundation maintains a restricted fund established at Yale New Haven Health, allowing for continued donations specifically for the Parent Plate Program. This innovative approach ensures that financial pressures do not hinder the essential support that families need during their most challenging days.

As the organization continues to expand its reach, there’s hope for introducing similar programs in other healthcare facilities. The success of the Parent Plate Program could inspire a widespread movement towards recognizing the needs of caregivers, making it a vital aspect of hospital care for families facing critical challenges.

For additional details and stories related to their mission, visit Feeding Families Foundation. Through collaborative efforts, they continue to pave the way for a healthier, more compassionate approach to family care in healthcare settings.