Friends and family celebrated the grand opening of our newly renovated third floor lounge at the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 1, 2025. The renovation was made possible through a $125,000 gift from the Giannola family. The Giannola family was honored at Ronald McDonald House’s 2023 Gala celebration.
Three generations of Giannola family members – more than 40 people in all – gathered for the celebration.
“We want this space to bring comfort, joy and happiness, to make families comfortable and feel like they are in their own home,” said Vito Giannola, one of the three generations of the Giannola family that gathered for the celebration.
Members of the giannola family pose to celebrate the opening of the family lounge on october 1, 2025.
“It is so meaningful to see a family of this size helping the families here at Ronald McDonald House. Families helping families is what it’s all about,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NYM. “What we want for our families is exactly what the Giannolas did for us, which is create a home-like environment , so guests can rest and recharge after long days at the hospital.”
Purpose-Built Comfort
Designed by Margreet Cevasco of Cevasco Design Inc., the third-floor space features a calming color palette accented with textured wallpaper, lush fabrics and upholstery, contemporary décor, and warm lighting. A new nook with a mounted TV and couch creates a welcoming spot for kids and teens to play games or watch movies.
The giannola family lounge located on the third floor of the ronald mcdonald house in new hyde park.
The transformation was also made possible by the generosity of Long Island–based partner Frank & Anthony Giaramita, a local, family-owned upholstery and drapery company, who donated built-ins and furnishings. Kravet Inc., longstanding friends of Ronald McDonald House, contributed additional finishings.
“It was my honor to work with the Giannola Family on this Lounge,” said Margreet Cevasco. “Our goal was to create a space for families to relax, refocus, and unwind. I enjoyed collaborating with the Giannolas, Frank from Home Interiors by Anthony, and Kravet to create the most beautiful and healing environment possible.”
Building a Future of Family Care in Stony Brook
The unveiling comes as Ronald McDonald House recently launched Stony Brook Project Design, an initiative engaging interior designers to create comforting spaces at the newest Ronald McDonald House next to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, scheduled to open in 2027. More information can be found at rmhcnym.org/projectdesign.
The youngest members of the giannola family pose in front of the giannola family lounge dedication plaque.
About Ronald McDonald House
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro provides comfort and support to families of children undergoing medical treatment. Follow Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro on facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok.
