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Former Red Deer Rebel Ryan Nugent-Hopkins during a pre-pandemic visit to the Ronald McDonald House in Edmonton. (Supplied)
Helping Sick Kids

Oilers score big for local Ronald McDonald Houses

Apr 20, 2021 | 2:18 PM

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Alberta stands to benefit from an online 50/50 raffle held during the Edmonton Oilers 4-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens Monday night.

Officials with RMHC say fans buying tickets for the raffle brought the total 50/50 jackpot to $792,270. Net proceeds going to RMHC Alberta will support its Edmonton and Red Deer Houses.

Like many charities in Canada, RMHC is experiencing a time of great need, according to officials. As a result of COVID-19, the charity’s Home for Dinner program was cancelled, and local Houses have since relied on the generosity of donors to sponsor meals for families.

Reduced capacity, particularly in the Edmonton House, is an ongoing challenge, and construction of additional suites (with significant added costs) is currently underway.

Officials say the donation from the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation will allow local RMHC Houses to continue delivering on their core mission of providing meals, accommodation and support for families with sick children.

Oilers players have visited the local Edmonton House in the past, and have seen firsthand the impact that this donation will have.

Edmonton Oiler Leon Draisaitl during a pre-pandemic visit to the Ronald McDonald House in Edmonton. (Supplied)