Ronald McDonald House Central New York is kicking off its annual “Christmas in July” donation drive and inviting community members to give back by collecting items from its wish list. All items will help support the many guest families with seriously ill children who travel to Syracuse for medical care and rely on the organization’s programs.
“Each year, over 1,000 family members stay at the Ronald McDonald House, and we serve even more people through our Hospitality Cart program, creating a high demand for pantry staples and everyday items,” said Beth Trunfio, president and CEO, Ronald McDonald House Central New York. “Our ‘Christmas in July’ donation drive helps us restock our shelves and replenish our supply of key essentials so that we may continue to put families at the heart of care and meet their growing needs.”
The nonprofit’s complete “Christmas in July” wish list can be found here. Items of immediate need include, but are not limited to:
- Food and drink items: grab-and-go meals and snacks that are individually packaged, cereal (full-size boxes), K-Cup® pods (not decaf), and various canned goods
- Household items: food prep gloves, to-go coffee cups with lids, travel-size toiletries, paper towels and other assorted paper products
- Gift cards: Target, Walmart and Amazon
This year’s list also includes toys, games and activities for children and teens, along with items to support program needs. All donations must be new and unopened to safeguard the health of the seriously ill children the nonprofit serves.
Donations can be dropped off on Thursday, July 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House at 1100 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. To schedule an alternate drop-off time, please call 315-476-1027 or email house@rmhcny.org.
Community members can also celebrate “Christmas in July” by purchasing items from the organization’s Amazon wish list. The list includes larger items and a wider selection of household products, toys, and food and drink items. Donations purchased through Amazon will be shipped directly to the Ronald McDonald House.