DKI Windsor-Essex fundraiser aims to boost support for Ronald McDonald House

CTV News

2 days ago

The DKI Windsor-Essex team seen in Windsor, Ont. on Aug. 14, 2025. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)
Organizers of an upcoming charity walk in Windsor say they are closing in on their fundraising goal for Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada but need the community's help to get over the finish line.
DKI Windsor-Essex and four corporate sponsors have already raised $20,000 for the cause ahead of the Footsteps for Families 5K Walk/Run, set for Sept. 7 at Walkerville Brewery. The company matched $10,000 in contributions from Hub International, DS Electric, Physique Check, and Contents Processing Centre.
'Our goal is to raise over $25,000 so we're asking the community to come out and go for a walk or run and raise money to help us meet that goal,' said event organizer Elizabeth Elias-Hernandez.
'We've already raised $20,000, but we have a $25,000 goal. All we ask is for the families in Windsor-Essex to come out for a fun afternoon.'
Elias-Hernandez said the region's generosity is what makes events like this possible.
'It's very hard. But I have a big heart for Windsor-Essex,' she said.
'They are generally the most caring and giving people. Even if it's a small donation at your work, a bake sale at the office is perfect for that.'
The event will include a 'Community Challenge,' encouraging workplaces to compete in raising the most money for the charity. The top fundraising team will win bragging rights and a McDonald's breakfast or lunch delivered to their workplace.
Funds raised will go toward supporting families who rely on Ronald McDonald House to stay close to their hospitalized children.
'When you think about all of the houses across Canada with growth and expansion plans, we can't support four out of five families that need our services,' said Christine Richer, manager of Ronald McDonald House Windsor.
'The funds go a long way … unfortunately, we do turn families away.'
Richer said the Windsor location has helped 6,800 families since opening, but demand remains high.
'Windsor-Essex is one of the most generous communities,' she said.
'Everyone seems to know someone who's used the Ronald McDonald House if they haven't used it themselves.'
She added that many locals still don't know the service exists in Windsor.
'Events like this raise awareness and let people know there is a local charity here, right in your own city,' she said.
Registration for Footsteps for Families opens at 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 7, with the walk and run starting at 3 p.m. A post-event social until 6 p.m. will feature live music, door prizes, vendors, and a Family Fun Zone.