On Saturday, May 18, we kicked off our year-long anniversary celebration with a special community event on our Seattle campus. It was a memorable afternoon as neighbors, donors, and families staying at the House all gathered for fun and community. Festivities included face painting, balloon artists, crafts, tours of the House, and free fries from the McDonald’s Fry Truck. A fun bingo game helped attendees explore the various activity stations and offered a chance to win a $100 gift card courtesy of Metropolitan Market.
For four decades, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington & Alaska has been a beacon of hope, providing comfort, care, and support to families while their children are receiving medical care at neighboring Seattle Children’s and the Alaska Native Medical Center. What started as a modest 20-room facility serving oncology patients in Seattle has now grown to 139 rooms spanning two locations providing free housing and services annually to 2200 families in our care.
While the average stay at our Seattle House is about 49 nights, some families are here much longer depending on their child’s medical journey. Our house truly becomes home for them, and they are always part of the Ronald McDonald House family. We were thrilled when a few families who had stayed with us in the past stopped by the open house. One father traveled more than 40 miles to share his appreciation for the kindness and support his family received at the House over six months in 2002 and again in 2004. Although his son lost his battle with cancer, the event was a special time to reconnect with long-time volunteers and staff who remembered his family’s time here at the House.
“We were delighted to open our doors and invite the community to witness firsthand the love and care that permeates every inch of our House,” said Chief Executive Officer Deniz Satir. “This event was a wonderful opportunity to welcome our neighbors and express our gratitude to our supporters and the hundreds of amazing volunteers who make our mission possible.”
A big thank you to our partners — McDonald’s, Seattle Children’s, the John L. Scott Foundation, Martin Brower, Metropolitan Market, National Charity League, Inc., and Empress Senior Living — for celebrating with us on site! We also appreciate Swire Coca-Cola and Macrina Bakery for their in-kind donations that added to the festivities.
Coming up there will be more opportunities to celebrate our 40th anniversary milestone and support our mission, so please stay tuned to our website and social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
