Donation builds a playground for all children
“A society grows great when [people] plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.”
This Greek proverb captures the spirit of Ruby & Clayton McDonald.
In the fall of 2016, the staff at Ronald McDonald House (RMHC-SK) were surprised and humbled to learn we were the benefactors of a significant gift from Ruby and Clayton McDonald. Hardworking farmers from Lacadena, Saskatchewan, Ruby and Clayton were community minded and believed in helping others. Following Ruby’s passing, her sons, Trevor and David visited the House to present the donation. After a brief consultation with staff, it was decided the best use of the funds would be to create a wheelchair accessible playground.
“Mom always adored children. In fact, many years ago Mom would make trips to the House to deliver stuffed animals and toys for the children. The charity and mission obviously spoke to her which prompted the donation,” says David McDonald.
Expanding and enhancing the current play space will have a positive impact on children and families staying at the House. “With the previous playground, children using wheelchairs were always on the ground level looking up; they were on the periphery of the fun and excitement. Now, with the new structure and design, ALL kids can be on the play structure and be in the heart of the activity and fun. At Ronald McDonald House we value inclusiveness and equal access so we felt our playground should be the same,” explains Marcelline Zimmer, Director of Operations.
RMHC-SK provides programs and support for families of sick children that positively impact the health and wellbeing of the entire family, but we don’t do it alone. We have the capacity because thoughtful individuals in our own backyard make the care and well-being of children and families a priority and make it a part of their financial plan and legacy giving.
When reaching out to Trevor and David to extend our thanks and gratitude, Trevor responded, “We are just doing what our parents would have wanted but are happy to represent them. All the credit goes to them and their hard work to be able to make this contribution.”
On behalf of all the children who stay at Ronald McDonald House, we extend a sincere thank you to the McDonald family. Their generous gift will bring smiles and fun to our House and the impact will be measured in the sounds of joyful laughter and new friends made on the playground.
For more information on how to make Ronald McDonald House Charities SK part of your financial plan or legacy gift, contact Tammy Forrester, CEO, at