Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Make a life-changing impact for families with sick children in Birmingham
Reading time: 4 minutes
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When a child is in the hospital, the last thing you want to worry about is finding a comfortable place to stay. That’s where Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) comes in—beyond being an amazing home right next to UAB and Children’s of Alabama, they provide delicious meals and above all, a sense of comfort. We caught up with a volunteer and a mom who have felt the impact of RMHCA firsthand.
A place of peace in a stressful time
Parents already have enough to worry about when bringing a new baby home—from keeping up with nap schedules and feedings to taking care of their other children. Health complications on top of that can make a joyful time full of worry. When Zavion Shores was born at just 27 weeks this October, his mom Chastity already had a full plate taking care of her two daughters.
Thankfully, Chastity’s able to stay with her son while he’s in the hospital—instead of driving two hours to and from Scottsboro. Plus, her daughters have a place to stay too instead of being shuttled back and forth between various family members.
The Ronald McDonald House doesn’t just provide comfort in its beds or warm meals, though. For so many of the parents who stay there, that comfort comes from being surrounded by other people going through the same thing and cheering each other on.
“It feels great to have somebody you can talk to who’s not a doctor. It’s somebody here who’s not going to talk in medical terms.”
Chastity Shores, Zavion’s mom
Whether Chastity’s talking with other parents or volunteers, she knows that she isn’t alone. She has the support of everyone involved with RMHCA behind her and her son.
When you support RMHCA, you’re making an impact in the lives of families just like the Shores and giving them one less thing to worry about in a stressful time. Whether you make a gift or provide a meal, you’re an important part of these families’ stories.
Giving families of sick children peace of mind when they need it most
Maranda Pruitt knows just how impactful RMHCA is. As a volunteer, she interacts with parents and children and sees the relief it provides, whether she’s delivering delicious pizza or volunteering at special events.
“I really love the Ronald McDonald House and seeing the smile on family’s faces. I love being able to see the impact that something as small as a meal provides.”
Maranda Pruitt, Volunteer, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama
Thanks to volunteers like Miranda, families can focus on what matters most—being together in their time of need.
“Volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House allows the families and the children here in Birmingham to have a peace of mind. They’re not having to worry about meals, where to stay or not being able to get their child to the hospital as fast as they need to.
Your contribution has a direct, immediate impact on everyone who’s there at the Ronald McDonald House. You can see exactly where it’s going in real time, and that’s important.”
Maranda Pruitt, Volunteer, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama
This holiday season, you can provide comfort, care and kindness when it matters most. Want to support families like the Shores? For ways to give, check out Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama’s website, Instagram and Facebook.
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