The largest miniature train exhibit in the State of Texas is back on track to open its holiday-classic annual charity event this fall.
The Trains at NorthPark will kick off its 2022 season on November 12 on the second floor of NorthPark Mall. Still, customizable rail cars can be purchased for display by the public now, with much of the proceeds going to support the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD).
RMHD provides lodging, transportation, food support, and even recreation for families trying to stay together. At the same time, their children receive extensive medical care at nearby hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
“The Trains at NorthPark is such an important part of our year at Ronald McDonald House Dallas,” stated RMHD CEO Jill Cumnock.
She explained how the charity is back to running at full capacity but with higher costs, pointing to “surging electricity and utility costs.”
As reported in The Dallas Express, RMHD has also been experiencing a volunteer crunch in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cumnock explained that RMHD’s COVID-19 protocols requiring masking and proof of vaccination have dissuaded some people from volunteering, even though the measures are in place to protect potentially vulnerable child patients and their families.
Still, Trains at NorthPark should help keep the lights on over at RMHD.
The exhibit will showcase roughly 700 different railcars, customized and sporting the names of the organizations and individuals sponsoring the event through their purchase of railcars.
“Everyone who sponsors, purchases a railcar, or attends the Trains at NorthPark makes a real difference in helping to defray [RMHD’s] costs. The railcars are lifelong keepsakes, so please consider purchasing one this year to help light up both the train tracks and the House,” said Cumnock.
Since its founding in 1981, RMHD has served more than 40,000 families during their time of need. To volunteer, visit ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.
