Little Hands Helping Little Hands

Eleven girls from Sunrise Drive Elementary School Brownie Troop 1361 made a trip to The Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park along with their leaders Nancy Clark and Karyn Zane.

When they realized their troop would be the first in Sayville to volunteer at Ronald McDonald House, they knew they had to do it.  When they approached the girls with the idea, they were all very excited. The program, aptly named “Little Hands Helping Little Hands," was the perfect idea.

The troop was given a tour by Judy, a volunteer. “This is the place for families to stay as their children get better. This is like their home. This is a very important feeling for families to have. Everything is donated.”

The girls were shown the bright open play space filled with life-size dollhouse displays and couches. They saw the Jets room, and the Mets room (the perfect teenage hangout) as well as a typical room where families stay. Judy said, “What you are doing today is better than any present you will ever receive or give. I want you to have huge hearts exploding with gratitude.” A man visiting with his daughter’s Girl Scout troop interjected. “My son was on the receiving end of what you are doing and it means so much.”

The troop settled into “Irma’s Kitchen” where they baked three different treats for residents to enjoy when they returned at night after spending the day at the hospital with their children -- oatmeal raisin chocolate chip cookies, chocolate crinkles and crumb cake.

Betti McClellan, volunteer and program coordinator, spoke as the girls baked. She urged them to “always remember what they are doing today.” She explained that some residents come from overseas, brought by the Global Medical Relief Fund or Gift of Life. Because they don’t speak any English, everything is readily available to make it easier for them.

One little girl who was learning English while staying at the facility joined the girls in coloring while the cookies were baking. When they were done, one of the girls gave the resident her drawing. In return, the resident gave the Brownie hers – it hangs on her refrigerator at home.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Long Island Ronald McDonald House. Volunteers are referred to as “The Heartbeat of the House.” Each month, they put a “Wish List” on their website of things they need. You can log onto www.rmhlongisland.org for more information on how to make a donation or volunteer.