Monthly Newsletter November 2024

Our team is so proud to have served our NYC community for the last 45 years and to continue this work for years to come. Over the last 4+ decades our House has been able to support thousands of families because of the community that rallies behind us. We cannot thank our supporters, leadership, volunteers and staff enough for making it all possible.

Read our annual report to learn more about our journey and how we’ve helped families for the last 45 years. 

At Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY), caregivers—often the unsung heroes of the healthcare journey—are given the care they need to continue supporting their loved ones. Recognizing the emotional, physical, and mental toll caregiving takes, RMH-NY offers a range of services tailored to uplift and sustain caregivers. These include a Wellness Center equipped with spaces for relaxation, nutritious meals, aromatherapy, and physical wellness activities like yoga and massages. Creative outlets, such as Sip and Paint nights and DIY workshops, provide emotional relief, while personalized support fosters a deep sense of belonging. These efforts not only replenish caregivers but also create a ripple effect, empowering them to better care for their families.

The innovative programs at RMH-NY serve as a blueprint for how communities can support caregivers everywhere. Small acts of kindness—like preparing meals, lending useful items, or simply offering a listening ear—can make a world of difference. Extending care beyond immediate needs, RMH-NY ensures caregivers feel supported even after their stay, demonstrating the profound impact of sustained compassion. By adopting RMH-NY’s holistic approach, individuals and organizations can help caregivers thrive, building a stronger, more empathetic society where no caregiver feels alone.

Jennifer Petrone ran the TCS NYC Marathon for a cause close to her heart: Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY). Born with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect, Jennifer required life-saving surgery as an infant. During her recovery, RMH-NY provided her family with a place to stay near the hospital, offering comfort during an uncertain time. Now a nurse practitioner specializing in endocrinology, Jennifer’s participation in the marathon honored RMH-NY’s role in her family’s journey while raising funds to support other families facing critical health challenges.

The partnership between RMH-NY and the NYC Marathon has become a vital fundraising tradition. Marathon participants like Jennifer have helped generate significant contributions to sustain the House’s programs, which provide lodging, meals, and emotional support to families with seriously ill children. Jennifer’s efforts were a full-circle moment—her run symbolized gratitude for the support her family once received and ensured others could experience the same care. With every mile she completed, Jennifer demonstrated the importance of community in overcoming life’s toughest battles.

To many runners, the marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of resilience and unity. Jennifer’s journey, from overcoming her own health challenges to caring for others in her professional life, reflects the mission of RMH-NY: to provide hope and healing for families in need. As she crossed the finish line, Jennifer’s message was clear—every step she took and every dollar raised helped sustain a place where families found solace during the most trying times of their lives.

Did you know that a simple treat can help families stay together during challenging times? Local businesses are stepping up to support Ronald McDonald House New York by hosting gumball machines and peanut dispensers, with 100% of the proceeds going to help families in need. Whether you’re enjoying a meal, grabbing dessert, or just passing by, these machines make it easy to give back.

Next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for our machines at these wonderful locations – Finnegan’s Wake, Lilo Creamery, York Ave Pizza, Texas Rotisserie & Grill.

Want to join this growing network of generosity? Contact us to learn how you can host a machine and make a difference!

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Ruth C. Browne, a trailblazer in healthcare, has been nominated as one of the Power Players in Health Care by PoliticsNY! Her unwavering dedication to improving healthcare access, her leadership in community health, and her tireless efforts in advancing health equity have inspired so many. This recognition is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her commitment to transforming the healthcare landscape. Join us in congratulating Dr. Browne for this incredible achievement!

Sharon Carter Jones has been named at the top of City & State’s “Who’s Who in Communications” list. Over the past year, Jones has secured and managed over $1 million in pro-bono contributions and grants, including Pfizer’s 2024 inaugural “EDGE for Health Equity Sprint.” She also led a successful brand refresh with Weber Shandwick, informing a 30% increase in impact across family-centered care programs and services throughout the five boroughs and beyond. Her partnerships also allowed RMH-NY to evolve and expand its social media operations and create a communications strategy for a borough-wide health equity coalition, and ultimately, bolster fundraising efforts. Her leadership and unwavering commitment inspire us all, and we are thrilled to see her contributions recognized.

Our Chief Operations & Management Officer, Wini Cudjoe, has been honored as a Crain’s New York Notable Leader in Health Care. Over her nearly 35-year career, Wini has built a legacy of compassion, overseeing 24/7 programs that provide housing, support services, and a sense of normalcy for families navigating the challenges of serious illnesses. Her leadership of a 32-member team ensures families are cared for with dignity, comfort, and love, exemplifying the very heart of RMH-NY’s mission.

Please join us in congratulating Sharon and Wini on their well-deserved accolades. Their achievements inspire us to keep striving for excellence in service to our families!