Women's Leadership Committee makes Donation

Boise--The Idaho Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee met at Boise's Ronald McDonald House this morning with a check that will benefit critically ill children and their families. 

The mission of the Ronald McDonald House is to provide a “home away from home” for families of sick and injured children receiving medical treatment at Saint Lukes Medical Center in Boise. Executive Director Mindy Plumlee says more than 500 families spent time at the facility last year and they're almost always booked.

"I think it's wonderful that we are able to bring a focus to something that's so essential.This is a 19 bedroom house and we're at capacity," said Plumlee. "That's why we welcome the Farm Bureau Women's committee donation and all they do for us, It means so much to families staying here."

The Ronald McDonald House, located on Main St. near St. Luke's Hospital, started in 1988 and provides affordable alternative housing for out-of-town families with children who require medical treatment.

Built in the early 1900s and purchased by the late J.R. Simplot for the Ronald McDonald Foundation. Families are charged just a minimal fee per night the balance is paid with public and private donations to the Ronald McDonald house. 

“We are farm families, we have a long history with the House. I personally had premature twins, and I know other moms that have come to the house, It is good that they're here and provide services when they're so badly needed," said Women's Leadership Chairman Judy Woody.

Woody also presented the House with money collected from County Farm Bureaus. 
"This donation came from just about every county in the state, and what started as a small donation from county to county ended up being a significant amount and we're honored to help out," said Woody.