Block Library

Today we honour the birthday of a remarkable woman whose vision forever changed the way families experience …care.

Dr. Audrey Evans was a pioneering paediatric oncologist who understood something many healthcare systems once overlooked: when a child is seriously ill, the whole family needs care too.

More than fifty years ago, she helped found the very first Ronald McDonald House so families could stay close to their children while they received treatment. What began as a simple but radical idea — that families belong at the heart of a child’s care — has grown into a global movement supporting millions of families each year.

Her story continues to inspire people far beyond the world of medicine. The recent feature film Audrey’s Children brings her legacy to a new generation, sharing the story of a determined physician who challenged convention and changed paediatric care forever.

At Ronald McDonald House Toronto, we carry forward her belief every day.

When a child is in hospital, families don’t just visit.
They stay.

And because of Dr. Evans’ vision — and the generosity of this community — they can.

#FamilyStays #FamilyCentredCare #RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #AudreyEvans #AudreysChildren

It’s #WishlistWednesday 💛

This month, we’re focusing on individually packaged snacks — …small but meaningful items that help keep families nourished during long days at the hospital.

We’re currently in need of:
🍫 Granola bars or protein bars
🍎 Fruit snacks or fruit‑to‑go
🍘 Goldfish or crackers (must be individually packaged)

To donate, email giftsinkind@ronaldmcdonaldhousetoronto.ca or visit our Amazon Wish List — link in bio.

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays #WishlistWednesday #Donate

Every day, a new family arrives at Ronald McDonald House Toronto.

Tired. Worried. Carrying more than… anyone should.

And every day, this community shows up.

With meals.
With comfort.
With a place to stay.
With love.

If you’ve supported families this month — thank you.

If you’re thinking about it — there’s still time to help the next family who walks through our doors.

Together is how families heal. Click the link in bio.

#FamilyStays #RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto

This month, students at Ronald McDonald House Toronto have been celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth through …stories, conversations, and creativity that honour identity, diversity, and the trailblazers who inspire us.

Our Kindergarten to Grade 3 students explored I Am Enough and Happy in Our Skin, reflecting on the beauty of who we are and creating their own “I am” affirmation trees. They also read Girl with a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague to learn about an inspiring women in STEM and the achievements and challenges that shaped their journey.

Our Grade 4–8 students studied Viola Desmond, learning about her legacy in Canadian history and the impact of her courageous stand for civil rights. They created a Biography Box filled with meaningful representations of her life.

From affirmations to art to thoughtful discussions, our students are building understanding, and appreciation for the Black leaders and trailblazers whose impact continues to guide and inspire our world.

We were proud to feature these readings and student artworks at our February School Fair, where caregivers, volunteers, and staff had the chance to learn alongside our students. 💛Swipe through to take a closer look!

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays #BlackHistory

Last week at Ronald McDonald House Toronto School, Lunar New Year was celebrated in the most beautiful way …— through hands-on learning, culture, and connection.

Our volunteer Annie guided students through the art of dumpling-making, first practicing traditional folds (and a few creative twists!) with Play-Doh before tasting the real dumplings she lovingly prepared. The smiles said it all. 🥟❤️

Each student also received a traditional red envelope and learned the meaningful way to give and receive it — a small but powerful lesson in respect, gratitude, and cultural tradition. 🧧

Moments like these go far beyond an activity. They create belonging. They create joy. And they remind families from every background that they are seen, celebrated, and cared for here.

We are so grateful to volunteers like Annie who help make the House feel like home.

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays #LunarNewYear #Dumplings

New listing.

Location: Steps from the hospital. Steps from hope.
Amenities: Wraparound care, …shared meals, late-night tea in the kitchen.
Neighbourhood: Surrounded by world-class paediatric healthcare.

Status: Not actually for sale.
Forever essential.

❌ This listing could never be real, learn why here: https://www.ronaldmcdonaldhouse.ca/en/essential

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays

Family Day isn’t about perfect moments.

It’s about being there.

When Hendrix was in …treatment, being together wasn’t a luxury for his family — it was essential.

A place to sleep close to the hospital.
Meals after long days.
A space to breathe.

Ronald McDonald House Toronto helped them stay strong — together.

This Family Day, families are still walking through our doors, needing the very same care.

Help families stay close when it matters most.
Click the link in bio.

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays #FamilyDay

Childhood cancer doesn’t just affect a child’s health, it takes time away from school, friends, and the …everyday moments that make up childhood.

While Hendrix was in treatment at SickKids, Ronald McDonald House Toronto gave his family a place to stay close — and spaces where he could still be a kid.

There was a playground, a clubhouse, a classroom, and more.

After long hospital days, he could run, laugh, learn, and spend time with other kids.

“For a few hours, he felt like himself again,” his mom Jenna says.

That time matters more than most people realize.

Because childhood shouldn’t disappear during treatment.

This #InternationalChildhoodCancerDay, we stand with families facing the unimaginable — and we’ll keep creating places where kids can play, learn, and stay connected to the people who love them most.

Family Stays.

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #FamilyStays #ChildhoodCancer #ChildhoodCancerDay

As always, love is filling every corner of the House this week 💛

With Valentine’s Day and …Family Day around the corner, families have been enjoying Valentine-themed arts and crafts, heart-shaped lock-and-key woodworking projects, tasty heart-shaped cookies, and a colourful cupcake party 🧁

It’s in these moments — busy hands crafting with love, sharing a bite to eat, families side by side — that the heart of our House shines brightest.

#RonaldMcDonaldHouseToronto #ValentinesDay #FamilyStays