Ronald McDonald House

Due to the global pandemic, and based on the directives of the University's Return to Campus Task Force released in the University’s updated plan for our campus reopening, “Preparing for the Fall Semester, Campus Ministry Vincentian service programs on campus are moving to "virtual formats," Please check back regularly for updated opportunities and efforts that will be offered.

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island is an organization that provides the "comforts of home away from home" for families with seriously ill children undergoing critical medical treatment in the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York. Throughout the semester, Campus Ministry provides the opportunity to students to participate at the family dinner program by cooking dinner and sharing in conversation with the families staying at the facility. By cooking for the families, the students make them feel very at home while they also feel very grateful for such generous service provided by St. John’s students. On Wednesdays, students gather in the Campus Ministry office located in Marillac Hall 239 at 8;30am to cook brunch for the families. On Thursdays, students gather in the Campus Ministry office at 4 pm for departure to cook dinner. They travel together in the Campus Ministry van driven by the Campus Ministry graduate assistant and leader of the program.  Upon arrival, students bring the groceries provided by Campus Ministry; they receive short instructions with regards to safety, and set for cooking.  No cooking skills required.

After dinner is cooked and served as a buffet style, the families are called to share the meal. The reward of seeing the families being very thankful for providing such important meal is what makes the volunteers valued. It makes those families feel at home and cared. After students have cleaned the kitchen and get ready to return to campus, they are offered a short tour of the house. Once the tour is completed, they return to campus. While on the road, students are offered the opportunity to reflect upon the experience and connect it with their faith. It is through the Vincentian reflection that the experience becomes alive and meaningful. 

Everyone is welcome! 

To sign up for Wednesday's Brunch program or Thursday's Dinner program, click here. 

If you would like more information, please contact Campus Ministry at 718-990-6255.