SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — This holiday season, families staying at the Ronald McDonald House are facing unique challenges, yet local volunteers are working to make the experience warmer. Beth Trenfio, the executive director, emphasizes the significance of feeling at home during such trying times. “During the holidays, it’s really important to these families to be able to have a sense of home and comfort and security,” she explained.
Throughout December, the Ronald McDonald House has come alive with festive decorations and community involvement. Volunteers play a pivotal role, turning the house from just shelter to comfort. “They bring the house to life. They make this house a home,” Trenfio said. “They help us decorate, they bake on a regular basis, tidy, and greet our families when they are coming back for the evening or heading off for the day.”
Children staying at the facility have special activities to engage them, such as writing letters to Santa and enjoying daily baked treats. The excitement builds around the house as they search for Noelle, the Elf on the Shelf. Trenfio shared the joy of watching kids eagerly declare, “I wonder where Noelle is today?” as they run around the facility.
To alleviate the stress of gift-giving, the Ronald McDonald House has set up a community-supported gift shop. Parents can choose toys for their children from donated items, providing them with the joy of giving during such tough times. Trenfio highlighted, “We know they have so much on their minds, the thought of worrying about not having a gift for their child or children is overwhelming.” The gift shop, supported by the community's holiday Wishlist, significantly impacts these families.
“Every act is rewarded with a thank-you,” Trenfio added, noting how remarkable it is when families express gratitude during their challenging times. The Ronald McDonald House is urging community members to help by checking out their Wishlist for contributions.
Meanwhile, across the nation, volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte are actively involved as well. This year marks the charity’s 50th anniversary, established to support families with ill children seeking treatment at local hospitals. Kristen Young, representing the Charlotte chapter, stated, “Our families are going through some of the hardest times of their lives. We’re here to provide those comforts of home — a meal, a hot shower, a laundry room.”
For this holiday season, the Charlotte facility has transformed its basement space to operate as a free gift shop. Here, families can select up to eight presents for their children, with all items being popular choices like Legos, sporting goods, and Barbie dolls. The support from local volunteers includes members of Mecklenburg EMS, who help with meals and special holiday activities, such as assembling bikes and gift-wrapping.
“I love to see the children’s faces as soon as they come down and have a good breakfast,” said one volunteer, Trent, reflecting on his joy from serving during the season of giving. Such activities not only brighten families' days but significantly lift their spirits.
Many families seek help from the Ronald McDonald House through referrals from hospital social workers. The emphasis on community outreach and support elevates the mission to help families maintain some semblance of normalcy during such stressful periods.
Elsewhere, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana took part in the spirit of giving through their inaugural “Stocking the House” donation drive. This event allowed local celebrities, including members from the Notre Dame football team, to collect donations and meet with community members. The initiative encourages donations of non-perishable food items, toiletries, and household goods. Some items can still be donated via their Amazon Wishlist, demonstrating the continued need for community involvement.
Overall, the celebrations and community engagements reflect deeply on the core mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities. From baking cookies and wrapping presents to creating joyful holiday experiences for children, each act of kindness contributes to making the holidays brighter for families needing support. The sense of community is palpable, as families are not only provided with housing but also experience love and support during their hardest times.
Through these efforts, Ronald McDonald House Charities continue to embody what it means to provide comfort, care, and connection for families facing illness. Every volunteer, every small gesture adds up, creating lasting impacts during these challenging times.
