Raising vital funds for seriously ill and injured children and their families

30 January 2023: This week, Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria & Tasmania (RMHC VIC & TAS) is hosting its 14th annual Ride for Sick Kids (RFSK) fundraiser, raising vital funds for seriously ill and injured children and their families. This year it takes the form of a spin challenge on a rooftop overlooking the bay!

On Saturday, 3 February at St. Kilda in Melbourne, teams of up to 10 riders will undertake a Spin Challenge - cycling on stationary bikes for 10 continuous hours, with the aim of raising 750 nights of accommodation at a Ronald McDonald House (equivalent to $120,000).

All funds raised will go directly to RMHC VIC & TAS, to help the charity continue to support seriously ill and injured children and their families.

Peter Bishop, CEO for RMHC VIC & TAS said: “Ride for Sick Kids has been an integral part of our fundraising efforts for over 13 years, raising vital funds for families in need across our local communities.

“Taking the form of a Spin Challenge for the second time, this year is set to be one of our best yet with over 222 spinners, games, prizes and entertainment adding to the fun on the day.

“If you want to show your support, you can come along to cheer on the teams or make an online donation – every contribution helps and makes a real difference to the lives of some of Australia’s sickest children.”

Over the last 13 years, RFSK riders have cycled their way to raising more than $3.5 million for RMHC in Victoria and Tasmania - enough funds for about 22 thousand nights of accommodation for families in need and away from their homes.

RMHC VIC & TAS Ride for Sick Kids 2024 will take place on Saturday, 3 February from 8:00am – 6:00pm at St. Kilda Sea Baths Rooftop, Melbourne.

For more information, to participate or donate, please visit: www.rmhcvictas.org.au/event/rfsk2023/rfsk-home-page

ENDS

About Ronald McDonald House Charities VIC & TAS:

The cornerstone program of RMHC, the Ronald McDonald House, provides a ‘home away from home’ for families of seriously ill and injured children being treated at hospitals that are often a long eway from their homes. The Houses keep families close by giving parents and siblings the opportunity to stay together to support their sick loved ones. RMHC currently has 18 Houses throughout Australia accommodating more than 12,000 families annually.

RMHC VIC & TAS has four Ronald McDonald Houses (Hobart, Monash, North Fitzroy and Parkville), three Ronald McDonald Family Rooms (Monash, Sunshine and Wodonga), and a Ronald McDonald Learning Program. These programs provide much-needed respite for parents caring for a seriously ill child and a friendly place where families can spend quality time together.

More information on RMHC VIC & TAS, please visit rmhcvictas.org.au.