Being away from home, family, friends and traditions during the holidays can be especially difficult for the families at the House. With your help, we are able to offer many special events and activities for our families throughout the season to help make their holidays special and meaningful. 12 Days of Sharing During the twelve days proceeding December 24th, each family at the Ronald McDonald House will find a small surprise (e.g., chocolates, an ornament, phone cards, etc.) in their cupboard. Then on the 24th, each family will receive a stocking full of items that can be used during their stay in the Twin cities. You can participate in the “12 Days of Sharing” either by donating an item (48 of one item) to be placed in the 48 cupboards for one day, or by purchasing items for a family stocking. Adopt a Family Please support a family during their holidays away from home by donating gifts for their family. Donors will receive information about a family which will include why they are at the Ronald McDonald House, where they are from, how long they have been at the House and the ages and gift wishes of each member of the family. The evening of December 24th, after a festive dinner, Santa himself makes a special stop at the House to deliver the gifts! This is a great opportunity for groups! Give a Gift and Make a Wish Come True Another opportunity for donors is to purchase gifts from our special holiday gift wish list. The list is full of wishes from the children and families currently staying at the Ronald McDonald House. Ideas include toys and gifts for adults too. Many families arrive at the House so close to the holidays that they can not be “adopted.” The items from our holiday wish list provide gifts for these children and families. This is a great opportunity for organizations, groups and students who enjoy participating in giving trees. We will provide you with a list of ideas. We can even put each idea on a paper ornament for you to hang up. Dear Friends, We can’t thank you enough for the overwhelming kindness and generosity that you showered on our family this Christmas!! The MANY gifts for all of us were all so special! Please know that our entire family was very, very touched by your thoughtfulness. The love you shared with us was an integral part of putting the “Merry” in our Christmas and making this year’s holidays positively unforgettable. Love, A Ronald McDonald House Family Create a New Year’s Eve Basket You can help the families at the House begin a new year! On New Year’s Eve, after a festive time, each family will receive a special New Year’s Eve basket. The basket is full of items to celebrate the New Year (e.g., sparkling cider, non-perishable snacks, noise makers, calling cards, gift certificates to local grocery stores, and disposable cameras). You can donate an item (48 of one item) to be placed in each of the 48 baskets or donate a whole basket. Help our families mark the beginning of a New Year in a delightful way. If you are interested in learning more about these and other holiday opportunities throughout the year, please contact Persis Elkins, Director of Family Services at 612.331.5752.