Ronald McDonald House of Long Branch Spreads 'Home' Around Monmouth

The Ronald McDonald House of New Jersey strives to give every ailing family a "home away from home."

Last Thursday night, the organization held a fundraiser at Bella Vista Country Club of Marlboro, where Monmouth County businesses rallied for a cause.

"Tonight is really about awareness and supporting local business," said Corrine LeBaron, Executire Director of the Ronald McDonald House of Long Branch and New Brunswick.

Locally, the program runs a house next to the Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. The house is designed to become a home away from home for families with seriously ill children.

"We get families from around the world. New Jersey has a lot of great doctors who do great work," LeBaron said. 

Parents and siblings can stay close to their loved one in the hospital, while benefiting from a support system and above all else, a home cooked meal.

"We make it very homey and fun, we make it as non-stressful as possible."

RMH is always looking for volunteers. On a daily basis, LeBaron said individuals, families, troops and churches often donate their time to cook the meals and play with the kids.

Only 8 to 10 percent of the house's budget comes from local McDonald's franchise owners. The rest comes from local fundraising, corporate donations and grants.

"It's a community effort," LeBaron said.

At Bella Vista, the organization highlighted the importance of the smallest gesture when a local young girl was recognized for donating over 60 pounds of pop tabs, which help cover the $60 per room expense it takes to run the home for families.

 "It's nice to support the community and have the support of the community.'

For ways to help and to check out upcoming events to benefit the Ronald McDonald House, visit the organization's website.