CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Meet the Grinch and enjoy a hot breakfast meal at McDonald’s on 7632 Sunrise Blvd in Citrus Heights to help support the Ronald McDonald House donation drive on Saturday, Dec. 10^th from 8-11 am, or have lunch at McDonald’s at 7411 Madison Avenue.

The donation drive helps support the Sacramento Ronald McDonald House which has served more than 20,000 families since opening its doors in 1998, said Steve Josue, McDonald’s director of operations, for its Citrus Heights locations where the Grinch will appear for a holiday photo opportunity.

Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday character, popularized in a live action film starring actor Jim Carrey, learns the meaning of Christmas from the residents of Whoville who discover he’s really a sweet guy after all.

“Bring in a donation from the wish list posted at our restaurants and receive a free gift from the Grinch who’ll be happy to see and thank you,” he said.

Ronald McDonald House provides temporary, affordable housing to families while their child is undergoing treatment at UC Davis-Sacramento. The House allows families to be together and focus on their child without the additional worry of finding affordable, temporary housing, Josue said.

“The Grinch appreciates the public’s support for this very worthy cause,” Josue said. “We’ll have specially-marked barrels in place in the lobby where donations on our wish list can be accepted.”

“We’re accepting holiday clothing gifts for infants, toddlers, and all ages in addition to stocking stuffers this holiday season,” he said.

Gifts of activity items for young children including bubbles, paint, chalk, Play Doh, coloring books, crayons, markers, crossword puzzles, and word search books during the holiday are especially needed.

Ronald McDonald House is a ‘home away from home’ for families who must travel at least 30 miles to seek medical treatment for their child. The Sacramento Ronald McDonald House is a 38-room facility.

“We also need household items to support families who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House for an extended stay while their children are undergoing medical treatment. These include day to day items such as disinfectant spray, wipes, dish soap, laundry detergent, paper towels, travel size toiletries, for example.”

“We also welcome goods for our food pantry which include canned meats, fruits, veggies, canned and boxed soups, individually-wrapped snacks, cookies, chips, fruit snacks and crackers as well.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern California is dedicated to supporting programs that improve the lives of children and their families. The facility features 36 single bedrooms and two, 2-bedroom apartments. Family members have their own bedrooms and bathrooms and share common kitchens, living and laundry facilities.

Families are asked for a $20 donation per night, although no family is ever turned away due to the inability to pay. Guests come to the Ronald McDonald House through a referral system. Referrals are accepted from the social workers at local hospitals, emergency rooms and doctors’ offices.

Ronald McDonald House Charities is located at 2555 49^th Street in Sacramento. Learn more at rmhcnc.org or call (916) 734-4230.