Ride, Remember, and Give- The Benjamin Smiles Toy Run 2024

by | Jul 16, 2024 | The Biker's Blog

Image of bikers lined up for a toy run to promote the Benjamin Smiles Toy Run

22nd Annual Benjamin Smiles Toy Run: A Heartfelt Journey for a Worthy Cause

The 22nd Annual Benjamin Smiles Toy Run is more than just a ride; it’s a cherished tradition in the biking community, fostering a spirit of giving and remembrance. This year, the event will take place on July 21st, 2024, starting at C&C Cycles, located at 130 Lincoln Ave, Chariton, IA 50049. 

The event promises a day filled with camaraderie, purpose, and heartfelt generosity, as bikers and car enthusiasts come together to support the Ronald McDonald House.

Bikers lined up on a road next to a highway for the 20th Annual Benjamin Smiles Toy Run

Riders lined up from the 20th Annual Benjamin Smiles toy Run

Benjamin Smiles Toy Run Event Details

  • Date and Time: July 21st, 2024. 
    • Meet up for pizza at noon followed by a bike blessing and lineup from 12:30 PM to 12:55 PM. Kickstands up at 1 PM.
  • Starting Location: C&C Cycles, 130 Lincoln Ave, Chariton, IA 50049.
  • Destination: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa
  • Escort: Police escort provided for the route.
  • Participants: Open to motorcycles and cars.
  • Donation Options: Cash, toys, and gift cards are welcome. More information below.
  • Contact Information: For more details, call 641-774-7494 Ext 116.

This event is held in loving memory of Benjamin Mollett, a testament to how a community can come together to celebrate life and bring joy to others, especially children in need.

Ronald Mc Donald House Charities of Central Iowa LogoWhat is the Ronald McDonald House?

The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) supports families with seriously ill children by offering them a “home away from home.” This invaluable service ensures that families can stay close to their hospitalized children without the added stress of finding and paying for accommodation. 

In 2023 alone, RMHC of Central Iowa supported 1,084 new and returning families, providing them with the comfort and stability, and perhaps even a bit of relief they needed during times that every parent dreads. The overnight stays provided by RMHC allowed families to stay close to their children for an average of 17 days, with some families staying as long as 110 nights.

Shelter is not the only service provided by the organization. Throughout the year, volunteers and donors ensured that families did not have to worry about meals, serving 179 dinners out of 365 nights. Beyond dinners, RMHC provided 208 hot meals, along with grab-and-go lunches and to-go meals, ensuring that families had access to nutritious food throughout their stay.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa exemplifies how community support and volunteerism can profoundly impact families in need, providing not just accommodation, but also emotional and logistical support during some of the toughest times in their lives.

Ronald McDonald House Wish List

The Ronald McDonald House supports families with seriously ill children, providing them a home away from home. Your contributions during the Benjamin Smiles Toy Run can make a significant difference. Here are some of the most needed items:

  • Most Needed Items: Clorox wipes, paper towels, hand soap, bleach, coffee, single-serving snack bags, baking mixes, shaving cream, baby shampoo, and more.
  • General Items: Coffee K-cups, body wash, razors, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, laundry detergent pods, trash bags, and travel-size toiletries.
  • To-Go Meal Options: Single-serve fruit cups, granola bars, soups, pasta, instant oatmeal, and juice boxes.

For a complete list, you can check the Ronald McDonald House Charities Central Iowa Facebook page or the Wish List page of the RMHD DesMoines website.

How to Donate to The Ronald McDonald House Directly

The Ronald McDonald House accepts direct donations to ensure families receive the support they need. Here’s how you can contribute:

  • Shipping or Dropping Off Items: Please ship or drop off any of these items to the House near Blank Children’s Hospital: 1441 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50314. This will help ensure that the correct items get to the right House location.
  • Donation Hours: The Ronald McDonald House accepts donations to be dropped off Monday-Sunday from 8am-8pm.

Why Participate?

Image of a group of bikers riding down a country road in Iowa

Participating in the Benjamin Smiles Toy Run is not just about the ride; it’s about making a tangible impact on families going through tough times. Here’s why you should join:

  1. Honor Benjamin’s Memory: Celebrate the life of Benjamin Mollett by bringing smiles to children’s faces.
  2. Community Spirit: Experience the camaraderie and support of the biking community.
  3. Support a Worthy Cause: Your donations help provide essential items to families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
  4. Fun and Fulfilling Ride: Enjoy a scenic ride with a police escort, ensuring a safe and memorable journey.

The 22nd Annual Benjamin Smiles Toy Run is a heartfelt event that blends the thrill of riding with the profound joy of giving. Whether you’re a biker, a car enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to make a difference, this event offers a meaningful way to contribute to the well-being of families in need. Mark your calendars for July 21st, 2024, and join us in making this year’s toy run the most impactful yet.

For further information, please contact the event organizers at 641-774-7494 Ext 116. Let’s come together to ride, remember, and bring joy to those who need it most.

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