Bringing Love to the Table: A Mother’s Kitchen Morning

On a bright weekend morning just before Father’s Day, the halls of Alpha House were filled with the inviting aroma of pancakes and fresh-baked treats as volunteers from MAC Michigan gathered to host a special brunch for families experiencing housing insecurity. The event was more than just a meal — it was a heartfelt effort to offer comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging to those facing difficult times.

In the days before the brunch, preparations took place at the Rucker household, where three generations worked together to create colorful “sock donuts”—pairs of socks lovingly rolled into donut shapes and wrapped in clear cellophane. Each “sock donut” took on its own personality, sparking laughter and awe as they admired how fun and different each one looked. It was a moment of simple joy, woven together by love and creativity.

On the morning of the event, the Rucker family arrived early to cook on-site alongside longtime Mother’s Kitchen volunteer Ajitha Kymal, who lovingly baked her famous Banana Zucchini Bread at home and brought it to share. The kitchen buzzed with activity as pancakes sizzled and the irresistible scent of fresh bread filled the air, transforming the space into a cozy retreat. Ajitha’s bread quickly became a favorite among those present.

To add a splash of creativity and fun, families were invited to decorate donut-themed paper tablecloths using vibrant markers and crayons, turning the dining area into a lively canvas of colors and smiles. This hands-on activity gave the children a special opportunity to leave their mark—literally—on the day’s celebration.

As the brunch concluded, each resident received a pair of those carefully crafted “donut socks,” a small but heartfelt reminder that they are seen, valued, and embraced by a community offering support.

Mother’s Kitchen, a volunteer-led initiative, has long provided nourishment and kindness to Alpha House residents. Events like this weekend brunch highlight how food, family, and fellowship come together to uplift spirits and foster connection.

A slideshow capturing the heartfelt moments from the day is available here. Watch video here.