Meridian Credit Union Cambridge & Butter-Fink Family

About This Donation

Who Meridian Credit Union
& Ronald McDonald House Families

When April 2025

Contribution $123,400

The Story

Hamilton, ON -- In a heartfelt display of community spirit, Ronald McDonald House Charities® South Central Ontario (RMHC®SCO) and Meridian Credit Union have once again joined forces for the annual Pay it Forward for Families campaign, raising an incredible $123,400 in just one month to support families with seriously ill or injured children.

This year’s success reflects the power of partnership and people. RMHC families were matched with local Meridian branches, creating dynamic fundraising teams that brought energy, purpose, and compassion to the campaign. Their efforts, combined with Meridian employees' generosity and community engagement, made a lasting impact.

The Pay it Forward for Families campaign is more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement of compassion. Since 2022, this partnership between RMHC South Central Ontario and Meridian has raised over $440,000, directly supporting families with sick children staying close to the care they need.

Niagara Family Room - Meridian Credit Union

“Our families are facing some of the hardest moments of their lives,” said Mario De Divitiis, CEO of RMHC South Central Ontario. “Thanks to Meridian’s incredible support, we’re able to provide comfort, meals, and a sense of normalcy when it matters most. This campaign is proof of what happens when a community rallies around families with love and purpose.”

Beyond financial support, Meridian Credit Union employees donated their time and care, volunteering at the House in Hamilton and at Family Rooms inside McMaster Children’s Hospital. From preparing home-cooked meals to assembling hygiene kits for families on the go, Meridian teams made sure their impact was hands-on and heartfelt.

“Our employees were proud to give back—whether it was through fundraising, volunteering, or simply sharing stories. Partnering with RMHC South Central Ontario continues to be one of the most meaningful ways we live our purpose.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario provides a “home away from home” for families while their child is being treated at nearby hospitals. The 40-bedroom House is located across the street from McMaster Children’s Hospital, and is supported by 2 Family Rooms inside McMaster, 1 Family Room at St. Catharines General Hospital, and a Hospitality Cart at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener. Each year, the House supports over 1,000 families, and the Family Rooms see 150,000 visits, offering much-needed respite and support.

As the campaign wraps up, the message is clear: when families, businesses, and communities come together, they can move mountains. Thanks to Meridian Credit Union, RMHC families, and every supporter who paid it forward, hundreds of families will feel the warmth of home even when they’re far from their own.