5K Raises Funds for New Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital 

Members of the local community laced up their running shoes and flocked to Stony Brook University for the annual “Anthony’s Red Shoe Fund Run” on October 4 to support the construction of a new $34M Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, which will serve the families of sick or injured children.

Hosted by Ronald McDonald House Charities® New York Metro, the event featured a 5K race and a 1-mile fun run/walk to raise money for the first Ronald McDonald House located in Suffolk County, and only the second on Long Island. The House, scheduled to open in 2027, will provide a safe, secure and comfortable environment for families of children who are hospitalized at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.

The well-attended run — including students, faculty staff, families and area residents — was organized in partnership with Stony Brook University’s School of Health Professions; Program in Public Health; the Department of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine; Student Affairs; Auxiliary Services Association, CulinArt and Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.

The 60,000 square foot Ronald McDonald House will allow families to receive no-cost housing, respite, meals and hospitality just across the street from their child’s bedside. It will include 30 private bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms for families, a media center, outdoor playground, interactive playrooms, community kitchens and more. The Ronald McDonald House staff and volunteers will provide meals for families throughout their stay as well as fully stocked pantries, a fitness center, meditation room and laundry facilities.

The first 200 runners to register received a free T-shirt and there was an after-event patio party with music, food trucks and more. Prizes were also awarded to individuals in each age group and team category.