Ronald McDonald House Celebrates 30 Years Of Supporting Sick Kids and Their Families Highlight Section Port Stephens Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - May 11, 2021 Maya, Cleo & Remmy. IT’s been three decades of continuous support for families facing some of the hardest times ever. This month, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Northern NSW celebrates 30 years of providing a home away from home for families with a seriously ill or injured child. Since the doors of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle first swung open in April 1991, families have found a place to call home during some of their darkest days. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au The charity has since opened an additional house in Tamworth, three Family Rooms, and a Family Retreat in Foster. CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, Ross Bingham said Newcastle House provides support and comfort to more than 600 families each year. That’s 600 families that get to stay together, that aren’t paying for accommodation, and can truly be present for their child throughout arduous stays in hospital. This support allows families to focus on their seriously ill child. “Over 30 years, tens of thousands of feet have walked the corridors of the House, back and forth from the hospital to the sanctuary of the House and the comfort of their room – day and night,” said Ross. “Doors and arms have been opened, welcoming smiles and words providing calm in the chaos.” Ben, his wife Mel and their three daughters have been supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities for several years by pledging their birthdays. “Ben and I decided back in 2013 that when the girls have a birthday party, we would ask guests not to bring a gift but to donate to Ronald McDonald House Charities. “We usually raise between $300 and $500 at each party and the feedback from family and friends has been really positive,” said Mel. “We’re just a normal, busy family but Remmy, Cleo and Maya understand that this is one easy way we can give back and help families, so they don’t have to be separated when their child is sick,” said Mel. One Forster-based family experienced firsthand the impact Ronald McDonald House Charities has on families like theirs when their niece, Zali, needed to be admitted to Gosford Hospital shortly after she was born. The family room at Gosford Hospital allowed them to be there to support Ben’s sister Erin, brother-in-law Nick, and their eldest daughter Evie. “The Family Room provided a comforting environment that allowed us to be close to Erin, Nick and Evie during Zali’s hospital stay. “The family had everything they needed there to allow them to be close to their daughter during such a stressful time,” said Ben. RMHC Northern NSW has just one 30th birthday wish and that is to continue supporting families for another 30 years. But they cannot do that without the support and generosity of the community. They’re asking businesses, individuals, and community groups to purchase a Helping Heart from their website to raise money for much-needed improvements to the facilities and to continue the services that support the wellbeing of families and sick kids across the region. Every time you chuck some coins in the donation tin at Macca’s you are part of something that is a very big thing for families in need. To purchase a Helping Heart or to find out how you can support Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, head to their website www.rmhcnnsw.org.au. By Marian SAMPSON