Sometimes people don’t ask for help, even when they need it most. We often assume a meal is only needed after a major life event like a birth or loss of a loved one, but there are so many quiet seasons when a warm dinner can lift someone’s spirits and remind them they’re not alone!
So today I’m sharing five subtle signs it might be time to show up with a meal!

Credit: Chowhound
They’ve mentioned being “just so busy lately.”
When someone repeatedly says they’re overwhelmed, whether it’s work, parenting, or caring for someone else, that’s your cue. A simple meal, even store-bought, can take one thing off their overflowing plate.
Costco’s premade meals are a perfect option! They’re affordable, delicious, and easy to heat and deliver, no extra stress required!

Credit: EasyFamilyRecipes
They’re caring for someone else.
Caregivers often get overlooked because they’re not the ones “in crisis.” A meal for them says, you’re seen, too. It’s nourishment for both body and soul.
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake is a great option to take to a caregiver. It’s cozy, comforting, and reheats nicely for leftovers during a busy week.
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!

Credit: Take Them A Meal
They’ve gone quiet.
Sometimes silence speaks volumes. When a friend who’s usually chatty or active through texts goes quiet, it might mean they’re struggling privately. A simple doorstep delivery, no questions, no pressure, can be a small act of care that means a lot.
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the free printable!

Credit: Ahanov Michael
They’ve recently lost a job.
Job loss can quietly shake someone’s confidence and routine. In those uncertain weeks, even small gestures of care can remind them they’re not alone. A home-cooked dinner or treat can bring comfort when words feel hard to find.
Making multiple freezer meals for them is a wonderful way to help. It gives them nourishing, ready-to-heat dinners they can rely on anytime, without any added stress.

Credit: Take Them A Meal
You simply feel that nudge.
Sometimes you can’t explain it. You just think of someone and feel prompted to help. Don’t overthink it. Follow that nudge.
Any meal is appreciated, and if you want to make it extra special, check out this short video for a few simple add-ons you can include!

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Easily Organize Meal Schedules for Friends
Take Them A Meal is an easy (and free!) online tool for coordinating the delivery of meals to loved ones. If a friend is ill, elderly, or welcoming a child, you can rally their community to take them meals. We also offer delicious, fully-prepared meals that can be shipped directly to their door!

Send Love in a Box - Freshly Prepared Meals Shipped Nationwide!
Surprise your loved ones with a delicious, chef-made meal delivered straight to their door. Explore Shipped Meals
Tested Recipes that Transport Well
Our culinary team has tested each of these recipes to make sure we can heartily recommend them. Explore Our Recipes
Gifts & Such
Check out these thoughtful and practical gifts including engraved spoons, meal carriers and more!
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