SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – The holiday season can be a tough time for families staying at the Ronald McDonald Houses. And right now in Sioux Falls, the houses are nearly at capacity.
That’s why a local ministry stopped by Wednesday night to spread some Christmas cheer.
“Our families are going through difficult times and they all have one thing in common – they have a sick or injured child in the hospital. But to have some normalcy, to come and have camaraderie and just be able to forget about the bells and the whistles in the hospital,” Mike Broderick, community outreach officer of the Ronald McDonald House, said. “Just take a few moments to relax.”
The night was filled with coloring, cookie decorating and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. It was all hosted by the Table Ministry.
“We’ve been partnering with Ronald McDonald throughout the year and tonight we thought these families that are away from their home and away from Christmas traditions that we would meet them where they are and bring Christmas to them,” Pastor Erica Varcoe with the Table Ministry said.
The ministry volunteers also offered helping hands.
“They’ve been put to work. We are cleaning and doing projects for them and I don’t know, the house is full and the tables are full and it’s beautiful,” Varcoe said.
“We can’t do what we do without people and businesses, corporations, that support us,” Broderick said. “I just wish everyone a happy holiday and a Merry Christmas.”
If you would like to help the Ronald McDonald House this Christmas, Broderick says they are always looking for toy donations. You can also check out their wish list of items they need.
