More than 400 runners, walkers and supporters came out for the annual Ronald McDonald House Long Island “Walk of Love” 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, April 25, raising more than $100,000 to support its work providing housing and care for the families of children in medical crisis.
“It’s really exciting to see this event grow over the years,” said Matt Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Long Island. “This brings our entire community together, and we’re grateful to have so many of our families who we have served come back to support us.”
Sponsors included Kravet, Luigi’s Restaurant and Vincent DiRico, New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce, Bulovas Restorations, Marsid MM Group, and Rob Peck & Alan Wasserman at the Lake Success Shopping Center.
Walking in Style
Teams wore custom T-shirts with team logos as they ran and walked the course, winding through the New Hyde Park neighborhood around the house. The walk included a more than 25-person squad from local restaurant Luigi’s as well as families running in support of and in memory of children who received care at nearby Cohen Children’s Medical Center.
With rain in the forecast, families braved the chilly weather to make a difference. Many of the families in attendance have experienced the hardship of having a child in the hospital. Every dollar raised from the Walk of Love will support the care programs offered at Ronald McDonald House Long Island.
“Having a place right nearby that you can just stay here, get something to eat or shower, means a lot more than people expect,” said Fernando Mayo of Bethpage, whose daughter Savannah died 17 days after being born. He and his wife, Caitlin, stayed at the Ronald McDonald House during that time and continued to support the House. “Being so close that you can swing over to the hospital to see your child in the blink of an eye is so helpful,” he said.
The day also included a visit from Islanders mascot “Sparky” plus games, food and a bounce house for kids. Volunteers and staff flipped burgers
Walkf Of Love Sponsors: Thank you for your Support!
Heart of Gold Sponsors
- Bulovas Restorations
- New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce
Red Flip Flop Sponsors
- Kravet
- Marsid MM Group
- The Lake Success Shopping Center Family (Rob Peck and Alan Wasserman)
Red Sneaker Sponsor
- Luigi’s Restaurant
Thank you to our community sponsors
- McDonald’s – Steven Frazier
- New York Snacks
- Holiday Farms
- NYPD
- Bayside Glen Oaks Volunteer Ambulance Corps
- Whole Foods
- Tribute Baking Company
- Sabrett
- New York Islanders
- Royal Princess Prep
- Drive Up DJs