Community contributions to Ruth Lyons Children's Fund make a difference
The holiday season may be over, but the impact of community contributions to the Ruth Lyons Children's Fund is just beginning.
Over the course of the fundraising season, more than $200,000 was raised for the Ruth Lyons Children's Fund.
An additional $33,000 was added to the total from the sales of this year's Rookwood holiday ornament and attendance at the Ruth Lyons Night at the Cincinnati Nights of Lights.
"Working with the community and letting them know that we are a big part of their family tradition at Christmas time and really would love to keep doing that," said Ryan Niklas of Cincinnati Nights of Lights.
This year, the Rookwood Pottery Ruth Lyons holiday ornament sold out, thanks to a longtime partnership with Graeter's.
"I remember when I was in, like fifth grade, I got my tonsils out over Christmas break. I got a toy," said Chip Graeter.
"So when Channel 5 came to us originally to ask us if we wanted to partner, it was a quick yes," he added.
In the fund's 85th year, another Cincinnati icon, Montgomery Inn, joined the effort.
"This one is special, my in-laws that started the business in 1951, they remember when Ruth would come in," said Evan Andrews of Montgomery Inn.
"So it was a natural connection for all of us," he added.
Cincinnati-based Sibcy Cline also joined this year, recognizing the importance of community support.
"We've really wanted to have that opportunity to just reach beyond just our clients and help everyone in the community. And that really just builds up the whole region, and makes it a great place to live," said Lynn Bissell of Sibcy Cline.
While this is a holiday fundraising effort, the impact is felt year-round as children and families receive toys, blankets, and other support to make hospital stays as comfortable as possible.
The ornaments will be back this holiday season, along with all of the partners.