Greetings All,

Spring has finally arrived here at the Ronald McDonald House of Providence and we are blooming once again.  In this e-newsletter you will find information on our current expansion plans, upcoming events, recaps on recent events and words from past guests.  As always, thanks to all of our generous friends, volunteers and supporters!
Words of Thanks from a Dear Friend

The following was sent to us by Hope Leary.  Hope and her daughters stayed at the House for 18 months while her oldest daughter Courtney was treated at Hasbro Children's Hospital.  These are her words:
 
"This is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, and I hate goodbyes. RMH, was the best thing that has ever happened to my family, when I needed it the most. I didn't know where to turn at that time, and I was invited to stay here with my daughter. I did not know what to expect, but what I got was loving, kind people. They made me feel at home, they were there if I needed them even if just to listen. Everyone one of the staff members are now and always will be my family. I was able to spend my days at the hospital and my nights with my youngest daughter. I had food in my stomach whether or not I ate, it was always there, I had a warm place to sleep, and all the coffee I could handle. We've made lots of friends and a family we will never forget. RMH, gives people hope and love. We will always be grateful to everyone there and the family and friends we have met. God bless this House and the people who are here.
xoxo,
Hope, Katie, and Courtney"

The House is Growing!

In 2008, our Board of Directors identified the addition of two additional guest rooms as a feasible way to address, in part, the persistent waiting list that the House has had for more than two years. Space was identified within the building's current footprint and after a successful fundraising campaign, $75,000 was secured for the project. Construction will begin in the next few months and the rooms will open before the end of the year.   

We extend a special thank you to those who are making this expansion possible, including: 

The Champlin Foundations
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern New England
Shriners of Rhode Island Charitable Trust
Ocean State Charities Trust
Zackary Whelan's 4th Annual Lemonade Fundraiser
Friday, April 23, 2010

After losing a friend to Meningitis, Zack Whelan became committed to helping "sick kids".  Zack has since raised over $1,100 for the House.  Way to go Zack!

The Lemonade Stand will be open for business on Friday, April 23rd from 3:00pm - 6:00pm at the Jack & Jill Learning Center in Warwick RI.  JJLC is located in the Warwick Executive Park, building Summit East.  The address is:
 
300 Centerville Rd
Summit East  Suite 110
Warwick, RI 02886
(401) 739-2934

Come by and support Zack and the House!
Great*Nonprofits Helps Celebrate our Mission

Check out our page on Great*Nonprofits.  Great*Nonprofits is a web site where you can find reviews from past guests and volunteers, leave a review and share an experience you've had with the RMH Providence. To read or write a review go to Great*Nonprofits.
Hearts of Gold 2010
Held February 8, 2010
 
With over 140 guests, our Hearts of Gold event was a major success.  In addition to the pasta bar and beer tasting, guests enjoyed fabulous hors d'oeuvres provided by our welcoming hosts, Gracie's.  As always, our wine and chocolate tasting were huge draws as well.  Thanks to Tom Conte for providing great atmosphere with his live entertainment. The night was, by all measures, a huge success as we raised over $7,700 for the House.  Once again, a big thanks to all involved, especially Gracie's!  Check out photos from this year's Hearts of Gold event.
2nd Anniversary of the Ronald McDonald Family Room
Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Please stop by the Ronald McDonald Family Room, located on the 4th floor of Hasbro Children's Hospital, to celebrate our 2nd Anniversary.  Come share a story, talk with volunteers and other families or just stop by to see the room.  Refreshments will be provided from 10am until noon.

For more information, please contact Rhonda McMichael at (401) 274-4447 x43 or visit our site to learn more about the Family Room.
 
21st Annual Walk Festival
Sunday May 2, 2010

Join us for a day of family fun while supporting the House.  RMH Providence will  host the 21st Annual Walk Festival on Sunday, May 2 at Roger Williams Park Temple to Music. 
 
Festivities include a Family 5k Walk, Children's 1m Walk, hot breakfast buffet prepared by Johnson & Wales, a performance by Toe Jam Puppet Band, a rock wall and fun activities for the entire family.
 
We offer special thanks to Cardi's Furniture for their continued support as our presenting sponsor.

Save time and register online and create your own pledge page at Walk Festival 2010.
Have you Stayed at the House?  We Would LOVE to Hear from YOU!
 
Tell us about your stay and share your family updates.  Send letters and/or photos to the House or complete our online form.  Any submissions may be used in our marketing materials and/or donation solicitation pieces.
7th Annual Will Speck Memorial 5K Road Race
Sunday, June 20, 2010
9:30am Cranston West Track

The Will Speck Memorial Race is an event for runners and walkers of all abilities.  This road race honors the memory of Will Speck.  The mission is to promote fun, fitness and friendship, and to raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House of Providence & The Will Speck Scholarship which is presented to a Bay View Academy senior runner.

 
Come celebrate the life and memories of Will Speck. Click here to register.
Support our Local Molar Express

The Molar Express is a Ronald McDonald Care Mobile which has been bringing dental services to kids who need them for more than three years.

Help the Molar Express Deliver Smiles on Wheels.  Vote for our local Care Mobile to win $5,000 by Click here
Send us a Friend Request on Facebook!

"Ron Donald" would love to add you to his list of facebook friends. It's a great place to give your input, ideas or even share a story.  Keeping up with the House has never been so easy.  We look forward to your friend request.
 
Ronald McDonald House of Providence
45 Gay Street
Providence, RI 02905

 
 
 
Twitter

Upcoming Events


Wish List Items
 
We are most in need of:
 
-Baking Supplies
 
-Napkins
 
-Dishwasher detergent
 
-13 Gallon trash bags

-Olive Oil
 
-Canola Oil
 
-Salad Dressing

-Parmesan Cheese
 
-Stop & Shop Gift Cards

-Sam's Gift Cards

-L.L. Bean Gift Cards
(for linens)
 
To view the entire wish list Click here.

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