Holiday Traditions at RMHC-Madison
December 20th, 2024 | News
The holiday season at RMHC-Madison is a time of warmth, generosity, and community spirit. One of the most heartfelt ways we celebrate is through traditions that bring a sense of joy and togetherness to the families who stay with us, especially those unable to be home for the holidays.
Traditions hold a special place in our lives, offering comfort and connection. While decorating cookies in our House kitchen with volunteers may not be the same as baking with Grandma, we’re grateful to provide moments that capture the magic of the season and leave lasting impressions.
Ask anyone who has spent time at RMHC-Madison during this time of year—they’ll tell you the generosity that fills our doors is nothing short of extraordinary. Though we can’t highlight every act of kindness, some annual traditions have become part of the fabric of our holiday celebrations.
For 12 years, Lexie’s Legacy has brought joy to RMHC-Madison in memory of Lexie, who was diagnosed with stage four glioblastoma at age 25. Lexie herself ran the charity for its first two years, and her family and friends have carried on her work ever since. Each December, Lexie’s Legacy donates enough toys to fill holiday wish lists and stock our Toy Depot for the entire year. This incredible gesture ensures that every child who visits RMHC-Madison feels the magic of the season. Click here to learn more about Lexie’s Legacy and support their mission.
Love for Bronson, Inc. donates stockings filled with holiday surprises each year in memory of their son, Bronson, who was born with a congenital heart defect. Bronson’s family stayed at RMHC-Madison several times over 5 years, and does multiple wish list drives to provide comfort and love to the families who currently stay at the House that was once their “home-away-from-home”. You can keep up to date with what Love for Bronson, Inc. is doing by following their Facebook page.
Also around this time of year, volunteers transform our House and Family Room locations into a festive retreat. They hang wreaths, put up lights, and ensure Santas sit in nearly every room. Mike and Julie Wuest, along with Mike and Barb Ireland, create themed Christmas trees, including one adorned with Ronald McDonald socks, one sporting pop tab houses, and another decorated with a popcorn garland and chef’s hat for our kitchen.
And nothing says “the holidays are here” like festive cookies! Decorated Christmas cookies are a staple provided by loving meal and treats volunteers across the Madison community. This year, for the first time, the Child Life Association at Edgewood College organized a cookie-decorating event, inviting families to add their own creative flair with frosting and sprinkles. Kids had fun putting smiley faces and way too many M&Ms on the cookies, but the best part is always eating them later.
At the RMHC Family Room at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital, the staff and volunteers have made the holidays brighter for NICU and PEDS families. Their “12 Days of Holiday Cheer” program has been running since 2021 and provides thoughtful items like treats, neck pillows, and self-care gifts, spreading love to those who need it most.
These traditions remind us of the power of community and the joy that comes from giving. We are incredibly grateful to all who help make the holiday season so special for our guest families so that they can continue the holiday tradition of being together.
