School Projects

The Ronald McDonald House is a “home away from home” for families of children being treated in local hospitals. There are two houses in St. Petersburg and one in Tampa. Last year more than 2,000 families stayed at the House and came from Florida, 35 other states and 23 other countries. Families are asked to pay $10 each night, but we never turn anyone away because of inability to pay.

We encourage youths to volunteer either at the Ronald McDonald House or in the community.

Here are some ways your class can help!

  1. Collect items from our St. Pete Needs List or our Tampa Needs List such as canned goods, or cleaning supplies through your church, school, club, or youth group.
  2. Prepare food for the families such as a casserole, dessert or snack.
  3. Collect “Pennies from the Heart” in your classroom, scout meeting, home or club.
  4. Collect pop tabs or recycle cans and take them to your local recycling center for cash.
  5. Do a Paper Goods drive to collect paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, styrofoam cups and napkins.

Activity List or 6-14 year olds

Pennies from the Heart Labels (print out and put on your own container)

Pennies from the Heart Flyer

Pop Tab Labels (print out and put on your own container - we no longer have the cardboard houses)

Pop Tab Flyer

 

COUNTRYSIDE HIGH SCHOOL'S GARDEN CLUB HELPS RMH FAMILIES

A unique partnership between the Countryside Country Club and the 9th grade class at Countryside High School has produced a win-win for the kids, the club, and...the families at St. Pete East! According to Chris Bates, the 9th Grade Assistance Principal, the Garden Club was started because they had room for gardens and kids that wanted to participate. The country club sponsors the purchase of seeds, and in return receives fresh herbs and vegetables for their kitchen.

The garden plot is close to three acres, which produces a large amount of high quality produce and herbs. The kids, some of their parents and staff members all enjoy puttering in the gardens, and seeing the fruits of their labor mature. Once the veggies are ready, the group packages them up for deliveries to the Florida Sheriff Youth Ranches and the St. Pete RMH.

Adding another dimension to the project is the relationship between the country club's chef and the kids, as he works with them on the business aspects of running a commercial kitchen.

Mr. Bates is pleased to report that they just received an Eagle Scout grant for $5,000 to purchase hydroponic equipment, which will allow them to grow a greater variety of goods. This project has turned out to be a great success for everyone involved, including our families. Thank you to Countryside High School for thinking of RMH!

Countryside HS Gardener
Gardens1 Gardens2