31st August 2018

Ronald McDonald House South Island seeks $20,000 for laundry revamp

With up to 26 families staying at Ronald McDonald House South Island’s Christchurch House, you can imagine their laundry is busier than most.

Around 400 washes go through their machines each week, and with some of those being more than fifteen years old, they are urgently in need of replacing.

The charity is asking the community to ‘Sponsor a Wash’ for $50 to help them purchase six new commercial washing machines and dryers. The campaign has kicked off with a very generous $5,000 donation from Ashburton brothers Alan and Bob Johnston.

“We hear of all the great work Ronald McDonald House South Island does for the families that they help,” the Johnstons say.

“$20,000 to replace clothes washers and dryers over and above the day to day running costs is a big ask.

“Imagine all those clothes from the families - it just made sense for us to donate to this very necessary cause.”

Director of House Operations, Zucchi Leonard, says families staying at the House have enough to worry about – finding a laundromat in an unfamiliar city is the last thing they need.

“At times they have been rushed here, far away from home, without even getting time to pack a bag,” Zucchi says.

“Providing them with a laundry means they can wash and dry their clothes in no time, and focus on what’s most important – caring for their child.

“We’re so grateful for any support to make the House as homely as possible for families staying here, and the Johnstons’ donation is an incredible start to this campaign.”

Those who wish to Sponsor a Wash can do so at rmhsi.org.nz/product/sponsor-a-wash.

Ends.

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