The Aughavin family of Floral Park recently donated 15 hand-crocheted blankets to the residents of the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island to keep them warm during the cold, blustery winter season. Bearing smiles and gifts, they stopped by the House with their children and grandchildren on a significant date: the anniversary of the passing of their son, James Aughavin, who died of cancer two years ago.

For the past two years, the Aughavin family has been collaborating with Mike McGuire of Trinity Restaurant in Floral Park, who donates food on a monthly basis for the families at the House. McGuire also coordinates a golf outing annually - for the last two years, proceeds benefited the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island. The Aughavins knew they would continue in that tradition, but they also wished to bring something special to the House in commemoration of Mr. Aughavin.

"Jimmy was a fun-loving, good-hearted person who loved children," Mrs. Aughavin said. "This is the reason why we keep coming back to the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island."

House Executive Director Silvana LaFerlito-Gullo added, "It is through the kindness and generosity of families like the Aughavins that we are able to provide a warm, nurturing environment, which in turn, helps bring comfort to our residents and their children."

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island provides families a home-away-from-home during their child's treatment at local hospitals. Since 1986, the House has served more than 8,500 families, with more than half coming from the boroughs of New York and Long Island. The warm and supportive atmosphere at the House combined with the ability to be at their child's bedside within minutes is priceless to families.