HARLINGEN — Whether you love tasting gourmet dishes or enjoy listening to live bands, this may be the fun-filled family gathering you were looking for.
Ronald McDonald House Charities Rio Grande Valley is hosting its “Second Annual Men Who Cook” fundraiser on the lawn of their transformed outdoor eatery on Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m.
More than 15 teams will be cooking comfort foods of their choosing while attendees will be able to sit back, enjoy live music and vote for their favorite teams and dishes.
Participating teams will be competing for three recognition awards: The Foodie’s Choice Award, Ronald McDonald House Charities Award and the People’s Choice Award.
Each team has a mission to raise $2,000 in sponsorships.
As of date, Magic Valley Electric and Harlingen South Swim and Dive are two teams that have already reached their $2,000 goal.
All of the proceeds raised from the event will support the Ronald McDonald House, which provides a home away from home for families of critically ill children receiving medical treatment in Valley hospitals.
For the past 20 years, the Ronald McDonald House has provided more than 14,100 nights of lodging to 3,500 families.
According to the nonprofit’s website, the budgeted expenses for the Ronald McDonald House are approximately $400,000 annually.
The one-story, 8,000-square-foot house provides a personal, home-like atmosphere. It includes six bedrooms that can accommodate up to four people, a living room, dining room, laundry room, quiet room, family game room, kitchen, fenced backyard, and a large pantry. Each bedroom has a private bathroom and telephone.
The nonprofit accepts families with a child who is 18 or younger and is being treated at any of the Valley’s hospitals or medical clinics.
Income is not a consideration for a family’s entry. They are requested to pay a $10 payment per night they stay at the House. However, the fee is waived if the family cannot pay due to financial constraints.
Families may be referred to the house by their physician, nurse, social worker, or they may call and request admittance.
According to the Ronald McDonald House website, primarily 93 percent of the families the nonprofit serves are from Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties.
Ronald McDonald House Charities RGV visions a world where all children have access to medical care and their families are supported and actively involved in their children’s care.
“We want to make sure that families are right next to their critically ill or injured child,” said executive director for the Ronald McDonald House Charities Rio Grande Valley, Mariano “Bean” Ayala. “So, if they need a break, they can come over here and rest so they will be refreshed to be with their child. It’s a home away from home and that’s the service we provide.”
If you go
Who — Ronald McDonald House Charities RGV
What — Second Annual Men Who Cook Fundraiser
When — Saturday, September 29, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Where — 1720 Treasure Hills Boulevard
Cost — $25 admission includes food and drinks
Tickets are available for purchase at:
• The event
• Online — http://www.rmhcrgv.org/event/men-who-cook/
• Nana’s Taqueria in Weslaco — 1802 S International Boulevard
• Ronald McDonald House Charities office — 1720 Treasure Hills Boulevard
• Bloomers Flowers and Gifts — 2001 S 23rd St.
All proceeds raised from the event will support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.
For more information about available sponsorships, contact Ronald McDonalds House Charities RGV at (956) 412-7200.
