DETROIT – August 17, 2011 – On Sun., Aug. 28, McDonald’s owner/operator Bill Saputo, Jr. will host the 4th Annual Children’s Day Rally, a fundraiser that benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit.
Participants may drive their cars or ride their motorcycles in a scenic route that begins at the Saputo-owned McDonald’s at 2985 Walton Blvd. in Rochester Hills. Registration will start at 9 a.m., followed by pack rides beginning at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. The Rally will end with food, drink specials and prizes at O’Connor’s Public House located at 324 Main Street in Rochester.
Saputo, who comes from a family of McDonald’s operators, has been supporting the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit his entire life, ranging from participating in fundraisers to being an active member on the house’s Board of Directors.
The mission of the Ronald McDonald House is to provide a “home away from home” for families of seriously ill children who are hospitalized and being treated nearby.
“Supporting the Ronald McDonald House is such a meaningful way to get involved,” said Saputo. “We are helping families in need of support during their most challenging times.”
Each year, more than 1,200 families stay at the 16,000 square foot House, which includes all of the amenities a normal home would provide. The House consists of 25 guestrooms with semi-private bathrooms, two living rooms, computer center, workout facility, large kitchen, dining room, two laundry rooms and a garden courtyard. Guests bring their own food and community volunteers often cook and serve dinner to the families staying at the House.
The average length of stay for families at the House is two weeks, with some staying for many months. Families pay $10 each night to stay at the House with donors covering the rest of the operating expenses and nightly rate for families who cannot cover that cost.
“Having family members close by has often proved to be the best medicine for a seriously ill child,” said Saputo. “I am excited that we have raised $18,000 since this event began, and I have high hopes for this year. The money we raise will directly benefit the families staying at the House.”
The cost of the Children’s Day Rally is $20 per rider, which includes one raffle ticket toward exciting prizes. Additional raffle tickets may be purchased at the event, with one free ticket for every five purchased. Call the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit at (313) 745-5909 to pre-register or for more information.
One hundred percent of the event proceeds support the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit.
About The Ronald McDonald House of Detroit
The Ronald McDonald House of Detroit has served as a home-away-from-home for families of hospitalized children since 1979. Only steps away from premier medical facilities at Children’s Hospital of Michigan, the House offers families a nurturing and supportive environment while their children are undergoing specialized medical treatment. The House offers 25 bedrooms, a large kitchen and dining area, play areas, TV rooms and a garden courtyard, all designed to make families comfortable during their stay. For more information, visit www.rmhc-detroit.org.