$125k gift from three generations funds new space for families of kids in hospital
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated third-floor lounge at the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 1, dedicating the space to the Giannola family, whose $125,000 donation funded the construction of the lounge.
Three generations of Giannola family members, totaling more than 40 people, gathered for the celebration. “We want this space to bring comfort, joy, and happiness, to make families comfortable and feel like they are in their own home,” said Vito Giannola, one of the three generations of the Giannola family in attendance.
The redesigned lounge serves as one of several inviting common areas within the 50,000-square-foot house, where families can rest, work remotely, play video games, or simply unwind after long days spent at nearby Cohen Children’s Medical Center.
“It is so meaningful to see a family of this size helping the families here at Ronald McDonald House. Families helping families is what it’s all about,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NYM. “What we want for our families is exactly what the Giannolas did for us, which is create a home-like environment so that guests can rest and recharge after long days at the hospital.”
The space was designed by Margreet Cevasco of Cevasco Design Inc., with built-ins and furniture provided by Long Island–based partner Frank & Anthony Giaramita, a local, family-owned upholstery and drapery company. Kravet Inc. contributed additional finishings.
“It was my honor to work with the Giannola Family on this Lounge,” said Cevasco. “Our goal was to create a space for families to relax, refocus, and unwind. I enjoyed collaborating with the Giannolas, Frank from Home Interiors by Anthony, and Kravet to create the most beautiful and healing environment possible.”
The unveiling comes as Ronald McDonald House recently launched Stony Brook Project Design, an initiative engaging interior designers to create comforting spaces at the newest Ronald McDonald House next to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, scheduled to open in 2027. More information about Stony Brook Project Design can be found at rmhcnym.org/projectdesign
