JOPLIN, Mo. – The true definition of Christmas – spreading joy to those in need – was on full display Tuesday morning as Freeman Auxiliary volunteers made their annual trek to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States with armloads of toys and essential gifts for the seven families temporarily staying at “the house that love built.”

For nearly 30 years now, Freeman Auxiliary – the fundraising and project-driven arm of Freeman volunteers – has partnered with the Joplin-based Ronald McDonald House.

“We are thrilled and honored to continue our partnership through this Christmas season,” said Danae Taylor, Freeman’s Volunteer Services and Gift Shop Manager. “Freeman Auxilians believe it’s more than just the giving of a gift – it’s an opportunity to share a message of hope, love and support during one of life’s most difficult circumstances.”

When volunteers finished arranging the gifts at the base of one of Ronald McDonald House’s nine Christmas trees, they covered a sizeable portion of the living room floor. Gifts ranged from Legos and baby dolls for the kids to devotionals and cuddly blankets for the adults. Most of the items were collected during the Auxiliary’s annual Christmas luncheon. 

“This year everybody must have had the spirit because there was an outpouring of love for the Ronald McDonald House,” said Freeman Auxiliary President Kay Glendenning. “This has always been near and dear to our hearts. This is a stressful time for parents and children and families staying here so we hope this helps alleviate some of that for them.” 

Each year, members of the Freeman Auxiliary raise funds from Freeman Gift Gallery, located inside Freeman Hospital West and Freeman Neosho Hospital, as well as various sales and events. The donated funds help advance the mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities throughout the Joplin region.