Monthly Newsletter April 2025
At Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY), a simple idea blossomed into a powerful symbol of unity and healing: a community-created coffee table book filled with recipes, stories, and artwork from caregivers around the...
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At Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY), a simple idea blossomed into a powerful symbol of unity and healing: a community-created coffee table book filled with recipes, stories, and artwork from caregivers around the world. Led by Angelica, our Wellness Manager, the project began as a way for caregivers—many far from home and facing difficult medical journeys with their children—to reconnect with their cultural traditions and sense of purpose. The heart of the project was the kitchen, where caregivers gathered to cook meals from their home countries, forming bonds through shared laughter, ingredients, and memories. Recipes like Ali’s Lamb Machboos from Kuwait, Daniela’s Venezuelan arepas, and the Caribbean classic Sancocho became more than meals—they were acts of love, storytelling, and cultural exchange. Some caregivers who didn’t cook contributed through painting, photography, and design, adding visual expressions of home and heritage. Despite language barriers, the caregivers found connection through food and creativity. Angelica’s efforts brought these diverse families together during a time of lingering isolation post-pandemic, offering comfort, community, and healing. The final book, printed in September 2023, captured not only recipes but the resilience and warmth of caregivers supporting one another. With 40% of RMH-NY families coming from international backgrounds, the House continues to foster inclusivity through culturally relevant programming, multilingual support, and a renewed emphasis on community-building. Encouraged by the success of the cookbook, families are already imagining future editions, ensuring that this recipe for connection continues to nourish hearts and homes for years to come. |
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Ronald McDonald House New York, we’re constantly reminded that our work is only possible thanks to the compassion and dedication of the healthcare professionals who partner with us every day. At the Ronald McDonald Family Room at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, our team recently took a moment to celebrate and thank the incredible doctors, nurses, social workers, and child life specialists who support families through some of their most difficult moments. To show their appreciation, Family Room staff Jen and Feng hosted a special pizza party for Elmhurst’s medical team, complete with food from a favorite Brooklyn spot, chilled beverages, and a round of Bulls-Eye Ball. For many, it was a rare and welcome opportunity to take a break, connect with colleagues, and enjoy a warm meal together. In addition to the celebration, the team surprised social workers and child life specialists with thoughtfully assembled gift bags filled with wellness items and handwritten notes of thanks—small gestures that carried deep appreciation for the emotional and practical support they provide to children and families. Volunteer Manishi helped elevate the experience with warm drinks and an even warmer presence, making sure every guest felt welcomed and cared for. Volunteers like her are the heartbeat of our mission, creating moments of joy and comfort amid uncertainty. Across Elmhurst, Kings County, Metropolitan, and Montefiore, we’re thankful to work alongside the staff that support our families everyday. |
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Our families recently enjoyed a very special visit from Hoppy the Spring Bunny. He arrived on an FDNY truck, bringing joy to our families with photos, goodies, and plenty of springtime cheer. He then hoped in a fire truck buckets and went each family room by room to wave hello. A heartfelt thank you to our partners at FDNY Engine 44 and the NYPD 19th Precinct for making this festive celebration possible. Their support helped create a fun and memorable experience for everyone at the House. At RMH-NY, we’re honored to provide moments of joy and comfort to families during difficult times, and this visit from Hoppy was a wonderful reminder of the power of community and kindness. |
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More Stories
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