Andrew Reid is an impressive 19-year-old who transformed his family’s East Northport home into a holiday wonderland. Andrew found and refurbished over 500 lighted decorations and opened up his Misfits Island display for all to enjoy.
On January 15th, Andrew and his mom Christine Reid presented a check to RMHC New York Metro for $16,023.20 in donations raised by visitors to their holiday light display. All funds raised will be donated toward the Capital Campaign to build a Ronald McDonald House in Suffolk County.
A surprise worth waiting for
Representatives were present from Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro including Matt Campo, CEO, Nick Croce, board member, Niki Croce, co-chair to Stony Brook Advisory Council, and Liana Lee, Capital Campaign Manager. Andrew kept the total amount raised a secret right up until the moment the check was presented. What a great moment!
– Matt Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro.
“I was blown away! I had no idea it was going to be that large. I told the family we work so hard to raise every dollar. For someone to come and hand us more than $16,000 is just amazing.”
What began as a passion for refurbishing discarded holiday decorations grew into an annual tradition for Andrew and his family, with more than 500 decorations covering nearly every inch of Andrew’s home, yard, and even his car. His display was chronicled by media across New York and nationally.
Supporting local families in Suffolk County
Andrew’s ‘Misfit Island’ Christmas display was also voted the winner of Newsday’s Holiday Lights contest, with a prize of $1,000. Those earnings are included in the donation to RMHC New York Metro.
“I surprised myself as well. It was a lot of work, a lot of standing in front of the house collecting donations. Ronald McDonald House is a very good organization to support and it’s local, so the money will stay here.”
– Andrew Reid
The money donated will go toward the construction of the new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. A groundbreaking ceremony was held last year, and construction will begin in the spring with plans to open in 2027.
Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro provides comfort and support to families of children undergoing medical treatment. Funds raised through Andrew’s light display will directly benefit the new 24/7 care facility at Stony Brook Hospital, ensuring families can stay close to their sick or injured children.