Ronald McDonald House

As I've written about it before, the Ronald McDonald House is one of Southwest Airlines biggest charities. Back in November, we held a Thanksgiving dinner for the residents. I just recently received the pictures below from one of my co-workers so I didn't get this posted at the time.

We had a record number of employees attend. Even though there were many residents staying there at the time, not many were at the dinner. They were either at the hospital or in their respective rooms. By the time the night was over, we had 14 employees there! In all the years I've been volunteering for these meals, I've never seen that many there! It was great!

Aside from having the main course catered, the employees brought all the other side dishes. There was a huge spread to choose from: Sweet potatoes, salad, rolls, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, gravy, turkey, ham, baked macaroni and cheese, corn, many pies and brownies. I'm sure I forgot something!

The spread of food!!!

It's so fun to sit and talk with the people that are staying there. A huge map is posted on the dining room wall and the names of the families staying there are tacked to the respective state that they are from. It's amazing how far away they come from to receive treatment at one of our local hospitals.

Twice a year we visit the RMH. One time in the summer for a BBQ and again in the fall, usually in November for a dinner such as this one. But they take donations at ANY time of the year. It's strictly a non profit organization.

It really makes you realize how lucky you are to be healthy. The majority of the residents there are children. Many of them just babies. Many of them have oxygen bottles or IVs that they have to carry with them even though they aren't at the hospital.

Employees and residents alike enjoying the big meal.

A little blurry....but here I am with two other ramp employees and a resident at the end of the table.

Employees in attendance....prior to others that came after work.

I encourage you to read the web site I provided above on this remarkable charity. It's definitely worth the time. Any type of donation you can give is appreciated. They not only take monetary donations, but they also need items to support daily living. Food, paper articles, bedding, kitchen items, etc. It's all needed!

Have a great holiday and a blessed new year!