Because We Care Campaign: Progress and Next StepsThe Rotary Club of St. Catharines South and The May Court Club of St. Catharines are proud to share the remarkable progress of the Because We Care Campaign, a pledge to raise $300,000 for the completion of the Ronald McDonald Family Room at the Marotta Family Hospital in Niagara. This space has already provided comfort, care, and essential services to families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
A Gala to Remember: October 5th, 2024
Our fundraising gala at Club Roma was an incredible success, welcoming 208 guests for an evening of community spirit, live and silent auctions, and generous pledges. During the event, a presentation of $198,000 was made to Ronald McDonald House Charities, bringing us closer to our $300,000 goal. Donations have continued to arrive, and to date, we have raised a net total of $240,000.
This success was recently celebrated in an interview with Cogeco, where the tremendous impact of the gala and the continued need to meet our pledge were highlighted. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported this event and made it a night to remember.
Save the Date: June 14th, 2025
Our next major fundraising event is scheduled for Saturday, June 14th, 2025, at the beautiful Sue-Ann Staff Winery.Join us for a casual evening of food stations, entertainment, and music, with plans to feature the Toronto Big Swing Band, playing hits from the 1930s and 1940s. This relaxed celebration will be an opportunity to unwind, connect, and raise the remaining funds to fulfill our pledge. More details, including ticket pricing, will be announced soon—stay tuned!
The Impact of the Family Room
Since its opening in September 2024, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at the Marotta Family Hospital has supported over 10,000 family visits, averaging 80-100 visits per day. These numbers exceed expectations and highlight the critical need for this space in our community. The Family Room operates 24/7 and provides:
- Nutritious meals throughout the day
- Cooking facilities
- A washer and dryer
- A comfortable and welcoming environment
Future plans include additional programming such as movie nights and children’s activities, ensuring the Family Room continues to offer the comforts of home to families in need.
How You Can Help
To complete our pledge, we continue to seek sponsorships, donations, and support for upcoming events. If you would like to contribute, please visit our donation page HERE.
Together, we are building a legacy of compassion and care, ensuring that families facing medical crises have the support they need. Thank you for being a part of this meaningful journey.