For the price of a movie ticket, #BeAHero and keep sick children and their families together

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Become a hero today and make an impact that lasts a lifetime. Photo courtesy of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.

How long did it take you to sign up for Netflix? Becoming a House Hero is faster and takes less out of your wallet. Find out just how easy it is to make a positive difference for moms, dads and children who need a light in their lives. Families need help now—be a hero.

House Heroes provide reassurance and security

You know when you pull up to the house after a really long day and dinner is waiting for you? Imagine that feeling after spending days in the hospital with your sick child, possibly living in an unfamiliar city and having the overall stress of not knowing what tomorrow will look like.

Crystal Gilham knows that feeling firsthand after staying in the Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham when her child was born with health issues. Instead of driving an hour and a half to receive care or see her child, her family was able to stay together during a time when family is most important. Because of House Heroes’ support, families only have to walk one block from the Ronald McDonald House to the hospital.

Although she lived through a situation where Crystal needed the support of RMHCA, that isn’t what totally pushed her to become a House Hero. Crystal says what really made her commit was the thought of how many families would benefit, the same way she did, through her donation.

“I know what it’s like to be away from home. We live an hour and a half away. I was just thankful they were there. I hope that one day they can build another Ronald McDonald House, because there are so many people who need their help”

Crystal Gilham

Hey, maybe if enough of us become House Heroes that could be a possibility. For now, a hot meal, a comfortable place to sleep and constant support are what families receive from the staff at RMHCA. Although they’re definitely superheroes, they can’t do it all on their own—that’s where we come in.

Becoming a House Hero

House Heroes
Knowing I’m keeping these fellas with their parents is enough to get me signed up as a House Hero. Photo courtesy of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama

You don’t have to put on a cape or respond to late-night symbols in the sky. You don’t have to do anything really, except choose an amount to contribute. This isn’t some binding contract—you pick how much and how often you give.

“Everything helps. You never know when you’re gonna need help until you’re in the situation.”

Crystal Gilham

Joining the league of House Heroes at $10 per month makes 2.5x times the impact of a one-time gift of $50. It’s not a take-your-money-and-run kinda deal either. Once you give, RMHCA continues providing real-time updates on how YOU are making a positive impact.

House Hero Beth Pope has a special tie to RMHCA after volunteering at the nonprofit with her sorority over the years. Beth and her sisters cleaned and cooked meals for the families, and she fell in love with everything RMHCA does for those who stay there.

“To anyone who is sitting on the fence and trying to decide if they want to become a House Hero I suggest going and visiting the house. Once you step foot in the door, and you will feel all the love and support that goes on there and you will want to become a part of it too!

Beth Ann Pope, House Hero

Although we can’t visit the House right now, Beth has a great point about the energy you feel at Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham. Just head to their Instagram and Facebook to see all of the soul-stirring testimonials families are giving, like the one below.

Let’s look at the facts

House Heroes
Giving less is more! Giving a little every month makes a much bigger difference than a one-time donation. Photo courtesy of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama

Here’s what you’re giving up to be a House Hero

  • Two daily lattes
  • A drive-through meal
  • That clearance shirt from Target you really don’t need

Here’s what you’re giving

  • Emotional support
  • Comfort
  • Food
  • Security
  • A warm place to sleep
  • Peace of mind
  • Strength

Will you #BeAHero today? Donate now and find out more about how you’re keeping families together by following RMHCA on Instagram and Facebook.

Irene Richardson
Irene Richardson
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