Dillard’s Presents Check to Temple Ronald McDonald House

The Ronald McDonald House Charity of Temple has received a generous gift to aid in its mission to help the families of hospitalized children.

John Bittrick, manager of Temple’s Dillard’s department store, presented a check for $16,943 to RMHC Vice President Pat McCray during a lunch meeting Friday. The money was raised through Dillard’s sale of South Living Cookbooks in Temple, Killeen, Waco and College Station. Along with the check, McCray and the board were presented with a special copy of the cookbook thanking them for their charitable spirit.

2014 marks the 20th year of the partnership between Dillard’s and RMHC. In that time, Dillard’s has provided over $11.4 million to RMHC chapters across the country as a result of their annual fundraisers. Over $1 million were donated as a result of 2013’s sale of cookbooks.

Last month, UMHB Crusaders football coach Pete Fredenburg donated $10,000 he received after being named Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year for Division III to the Temple House.

The Temple House will host the 27th Annual Bob Lilly/Randy White Celebrity Golf Classic May 18 and 19th to raise further funds. For more information and sign up a team, call 254-770-0910 or email Susan Bolton at susan@rmh-temple.com.

Founded in 1974, the Ronald McDonald House Charities organization provides free lodging and services to the families of hospitalized children undergoing treatment. The assistance provided to these families allows them to stay close to their children without worrying about the financial strain of hotel, transportation and other costs. RMHC also maintains Ronald McDonald’s Family Rooms in several hospitals that provide a place for families to rest, wash clothes, shower or nap while staying near the vicinity of their child.