As you become filled with the spirit of the holidays, consider helping Western Montana families stay together during their time of need. No matter what you give, large or small, your financial support truly makes an impact.

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Getting to know the families that stay with us is, by far, the best part of my job. They are often enduring difficult, stressful, and sometimes tragic circumstances, but they maintain incredibly bright and resilient spirits. I am constantly inspired by the strength of our guests. Though I could tell dozens of stories about the amazing people of 2023, one story in particular has left a lasting impression on me. It’s the story of two sets of parents, both wives expecting, both with the same due date, even down to the same time of day. I watched as they met at the house and immediately began to develop a close friendship.

Though they had similarities, each family had different situations. The first family already had a young son and was expecting twins. The other family was expecting their first child, but had discovered it would be a complicated, high risk pregnancy.

After days of nervous anticipation for both families, their due dates arrived. The family with the young son was blessed with healthy twin boys. The family expecting their first child wasn’t so fortunate as the baby didn’t survive a very complex delivery.

Two Moms. Two friends. 

One experiencing a rare and special joy. The other suffering unimaginable grief. Each woman receded into some intensely private time with their respective families. Both were able to be surrounded by their loved ones because of the Ronald McDonald House.

We created a private space in the house just for our grieving family. That’s where we saw our grieving Mom together with several loved ones, each offering their love through giving hugs and shedding tears alongside her. Simultaneously, just steps away, we saw the mother of the healthy twins celebrating together with many of her family members on the patio, enjoying cake and pizza. THIS is what the Ronald McDonald House is all about. It’s about keeping families together, no matter the circumstances, providing togetherness, care, and compassion when it’s needed most. But we couldn’t do it without the support of our community.

Whether our guest families are experiencing happiness or heartbreak, what the Ronald McDonald House provides always remains the same—the gift of togetherness.

TURNING MY EYES TOWARD 2024

If this story brings about many emotions, one of them should be a sense of hope. These families had a place to congregate, rejoice, and heal because of supporters like you. As we prepare for the New Year, we’re thinking ahead to the families who will call the Ronald McDonald House home in 2024.

Regardless of what level of donation you would like to give this holiday season, I ask that you give whatever is most meaningful to you. Your donation will help us reach our goal of $125,000 as part of “The Gift of Togetherness” holiday challenge. Every gift gives families a chance to focus on what’s most important:  their families staying together, no matter what!

On behalf of myself, our team, and the families we serve, thank you for showing up, leaning in, and leading with compassion. You are at the heart of this work and our families are truly grateful to have your support.

With tremendous gratitude,

Amy Peterson
Chief Executive Officer