More than 200 guests turned out to a spectacular gala benefit concert put on by the Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro on Tuesday, June 18th, at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport, NY, to help support the Capital Campaign to build a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The event raised $45,000 for the effort.
Romantic singing sensation Anthony Nunziata headlined the evening with a mesmerizing mix of covers and original songs. Long Island’s own Leah Laurenti opened the show with a heartfelt rendition of Keane’s “Somewhere Only We Know,” setting the tone for a night of touching performances and community spirit.
Inventor and entrepreneur Joy Mangano served as the emcee, highlighting the critical need for a Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Medical Center by introducing the Griswold family, who utilized the Ronald McDonald Stony Brook Family Rooms in 2017. The Griswolds stayed bedside as their 3-month-old son Nash underwent multiple life-saving procedures. Today, Nash is a thriving, active seven-year-old. Their story underscored the importance of having a nearby sanctuary during medical crises, a need the new Ronald McDonald House aims to fulfill.
Nick Croce, Co-Chair of the Stony Brook Advisory Council and RMHC New York Metro Board Member, organized the event and welcomed attendees. Reflecting on the evening, Croce expressed, “I want to thank our event sponsors and guests for showing up in support of our efforts to build a home-away-from-home for families with sick children here on Long Island. Our goal is to relieve as much stress as possible so families can be there for their sick children.”
Construction for the new Ronald McDonald House in Stony Brook is set to begin this year, with an expected opening in 2026. The new facility will feature 30 private bedrooms, plus a fitness center, communal kitchens, a movie theater, a playroom, and much more. It will provide essential support to families, ensuring they can stay close to their hospitalized children without the added burden of finding and funding nearby accommodations.
To learn more or to get involved in the Capital Campaign to build the Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, visit https://www.rmhcnym.org.
About Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro (RMHC NYM) provides free lodging, meals, and emotional support to keep families seeking medical treatment for their sick children near the care they need and the families they love.