Monthly Newsletter January 2025

In 2024, Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY) celebrated its 45th anniversary with a mix of heartwarming moments and impactful milestones. The year featured memorable events, including holiday celebrations, community gatherings, and fundraisers. Notable highlights included:

• Seasonal Events: From New Year’s Eve fireworks to a glitter-filled Valentine’s Day, RMH-NY hosted joyful celebrations throughout the year. Spring brought family crafts, music collaborations with Broadway artists, and a skating event with hockey legends. Summer featured excursions, barbecues, and fireworks, while fall included a block party, an annual gala, and a Thanksgiving feast. December’s “31 Days of Cheer” capped the year with holiday activities.
• Expanded Support: RMH-NY opened two new Family Rooms in Montefiore Hospital and Metropolitan Hospital, offering vital support to families with over 7,400 visits recorded.
• Notable Achievements: The House served 953 families with 29,365 nights of lodging, 84,825 meals, and 16,566 rides. Programs reached thousands, showcasing RMH-NY’s commitment to health equity and community care.
• Celebrity Visits: Guests like Chris Pratt, Emily Blunt, and Daniel Jones brightened the lives of families throughout the year.

As RMH-NY looks ahead to 2025, the organization remains dedicated to growing its programs and continuing its mission of providing a “home away from home” for families in need.

The story of Joseph and Rosa Luna highlights the transformative power of love, resilience, and giving back. After their grandson Joseph received treatment for Neuroblastoma at Memorial Sloan Kettering, the Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY) became their second home, offering support, warmth, and a sense of normalcy during a challenging time. Following their grandson’s passing in 2009, Joseph and Rosa turned their grief into a legacy by returning to RMH-NY every Thanksgiving to volunteer.

Over the years, the Lunas have dedicated themselves to bringing comfort, joy, and a listening ear to families staying at the House, becoming known as the “hugging couple.” Their annual tradition of traveling from Texas to New York reflects their deep connection to the community and their desire to give back. Their story exemplifies how small acts of kindness, from serving meals to offering hugs, can profoundly impact others.

RMH-NY celebrates the Lunas as a cornerstone of its volunteer family, inspiring others to join in creating a ripple effect of love and support for families facing pediatric illness.

Needhika and Tarak, parents of Nirvan, a child battling a rare and complex illness, found a lifeline at Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY). With only 38 known global cases similar to Nirvan’s condition, the family endured years of uncertainty, medical treatments, and emotional and financial strain. After moving from Baltimore to New York for a treatment plan, they discovered more than just shelter at RMH-NY—a supportive community that provided strength, connection, and hope.

The House became a sanctuary for the family, offering shared meals, communal spaces, and emotional respite. For Needhika, art therapy became a vital outlet, with her creations representing resilience and hope. Her work has inspired others, including through a pop-up gallery at RMH-NY.

Beyond the physical resources, the bonds formed with staff and other families facing similar challenges proved invaluable, reminding them they were not alone. For Nirvan’s parents, RMH-NY redefined “home” as a place of love, stability, and healing.

On December 30th, 2024, Ronald McDonald House New York was featured on Fox’s morning show Good Day, New York, Fox’s popular local morning show.

CEO and President Dr. Ruth C. Browne took a few minutes on Good Day, New York to speak to the great things RMH-NY is doing for families with pediatric diagnosis, who are here in NYC seeking life-saving treatment for their children.

 Alongside, Dr. Browne, our CEO and President, was Marie and Mateo, who are a mother and son currently residing in the House on 73rd street battling Mateo’s severe case of epilepsy. See what they all had to say about the House in this segment of Good Day New York on Fox.