The holiday season might be over but the season of giving continues.
On Wednesday, Flyers Charities, along with several Flyers wives, announced that they have teamed up with nonprofit Michael’s Way and St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children to renovate the Northwest Philly rowhouse of Ronda Burns, an 8-year-old who is battling leukemia. Ronda, who was adopted by Joyce Burns in October, was diagnosed with leukemia in February 2024 and is in second grade.
Together, Flyers Charities and the other organizations aim to “transform the home into a safe and comfortable environment for Ronda and her family, improving their quality of life during a challenging time.” The Flyers are bringing back their Building Hope for Kids initiative, a long-standing commitment that was interrupted in 2020 by COVID-19. The initiative has seen the Flyers and Michael’s Way support eight local families over the years.
“As part of our main pillar of supporting families impacted by cancer, the Flyers organization and Flyers Charities believe that every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment to grow and thrive,” said Blair Listino, president of Flyers Charities and Flyers alternate governor. “Teaming up with such an incredible organization like Michael’s Way and partnering with the amazing medical professionals from St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children to remodel Ronda’s home is more than just construction — it’s about creating hope, comfort, and a space where she and her family can find strength during a difficult time. Together, we aim to build not just walls, but a foundation of love and support for the Burns family.”
Over the holidays, Flyers Charities, a group of Flyers wives, and representatives from Michael’s Way surprised the Burns family with the news they had been selected as the recipients for this year’s project. Flyers Charities will provide financial support to Michael’s Way to oversee construction teams for the renovations. Michael’s Way is a nonprofit which aims to improve the lives of children with pediatric cancers and help support families through their battles with the disease. Several Flyers wives will assist with the design, decor, and furnishing of the Burns home, and St. Christopher’s Hospital will provide guidance on Ronda’s medical needs to ensure the home is renovated accordingly.
“We are so excited to partner again with Flyers Charities and the Flyers wives on such a special project for Ronda Burns and her family,” said Chris McElwee, founder of Michael’s Way. “It is always such a great feeling to see everyone come together to help a family in need and give them a helping hand during a challenging time. This project will truly be built with hope and love!”
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“This kind of inspirational collaboration — offering resources, skills, and kindness by creating a positive change in the lives of families facing such challenging circumstances — is a perfect reflection of St. Christopher’s 150-year-old mission,” said Robin Capecci, a St. Christopher’s oncology social worker. “A home makeover, especially in such a difficult time, provides not just a physical change but also emotional relief that people really care. It gives the family a sense of hope, peace, and comfort when they need it the most. This kindness demonstrates the impact of collective effort and the way this generosity can have long-lasting effects on people’s lives.”
Flyers Charities and Michael’s Way will host an unveiling celebration when the Burns’ home is fully renovated in March. Through various initiatives, including several focused on families impacted by cancer, Flyers Charities has raised more than $33 million back to the local community.