URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — Every Monday afternoon, the kitchen at Cunningham Children’s Home fills with the smell of simmering pasta sauces, sweet parfaits and something less visible but just as important: confidence.
For 14-year-old Lonnie, a resident at the home, cooking has become more than a hobby. It is part of his healing journey.
“I do a cooking class with Lonnie every Monday,” said Mehki, a special therapies leisure and activities specialist. “We do different recipes each week, but the goal is not only to teach him that life skill. It’s also to help him in areas he struggles with like patience, impulsivity and teamwork.”
The sessions are carefully designed to encourage growth. Lonnie helps gather ingredients, prepare meals and complete each step as independently as possible. Along the way, he practices emotional regulation, responsibility and social interaction.
“It’s not just cooking,” Mehki said. “I try to tie in a different skill to each session.”
Some days the pair prepares full meals such as pasta dishes. Other days they create lighter snacks, including a “stack-your-feelings” parfait activity that encourages both creativity and conversation.
The biggest reward often comes after the meal is complete.
“He’s always so excited to share his creations,” Mehki said. “He’s proud of his work and it makes him happy to see his peers enjoying the food.”
For Lonnie, who struggles with impulsivity and peer relationships, those moments of encouragement can make a lasting difference. Sharing food has helped him connect with others and receive positive feedback from fellow residents.
“Sometimes it’s hard for the other boys to get along with Lonnie because of how impulsive he is,” Mehki shared. “But he does try his best to maintain relationships. I feel like the recipes he has created is a way for him to interact with his peers, get positive feedback and get positive interaction going — and it’s worked so far.”
The story is one example of the impact supporters hope to expand through the organization’s HOPE Improvement Campaign, which has already raised more than $48,000 toward renovations and programming improvements.
To donate, visit here: Give Now – Cunningham Children’s Home
