Ronald McDonald House New York celebrated its 25th Annual Gala this week at the Grand Hyatt New York’s Empire State Ballroom and raised $4.5 million to support families and their young warriors battling pediatric cancer.
The star-studded yearly event that is celebrating its 25th year was emceed by American sportscaster, Andrea Joyce and her husband, NBC News anchor, Harry Smith. The proceeds raised will help continue the House’s mission to support the operations of the facility, which provides free transportation to chemotherapy and additional support services that help keep families close while in New York City and undergoing active treatment.
This year’s event highlighted the work of three-term Mayor of New York City and Founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, Michael R. Bloomberg and Jason A. Rabin, President of Global Brands Group, North America. “We’re so proud to be honoring the contributions of this year’s honorees, they both have supported our efforts at the Ronald McDonald House of New York and have inspired others to become involved,” said Tina Lundgren, chairman of the board of Ronald McDonald House. The honorees demonstrated their charitable spirits and helped influence and rally support in their respective industries to raise funds and awareness in support of the House’s mission.
Additional support for the House came from attendees that are local New York staples and advocates. “I continue to be impressed with the commitment of all of our House supporters,” said Ruth C. Browne, president & CEO of Ronald McDonald House New York. “Their influence never ceases to amaze me and with this support we are able to raise awareness for all the programs the House has to offer. The Gala is a celebration of these efforts and it’s a wonderful night to be a part of.”
The 25th annual gala featured musical selections from the choir of Broadway Inspirational Voices and musical memorials for the brave children who have stayed at the Ronald McDonald House New York, but have lost their battle with cancer.
The funds raised will help the House continue being the largest oncology-focused facility of its kind, part of a network of more than 300 Ronald McDonald sites worldwide. Specifically in New York, it will help by keeping families close by providing temporary housing for children battling cancer and their families while receiving treatment at one of 16 nearby partnering hospitals throughout the city.
To learn more about the House or to make a donation, please visit www.rmh-newyork.org.
