NEW YORK – For the 23rd year, the Ronald McDonald House New York (RMHNY) Greek Division held its annual Christmas party, which raises funds for families with children suffering from cancer. The event took place on December 10 at the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan with many from the Greek community present.

The honorees of the evening were Pan Gregorian Enterprises President George Siamboulis and Pan Gregorian Foundation President James Logothetis, who have contributed so much to the Greek Division.

“These are two great individuals who have done a lot for the Greek community and have provided a lot of money. We are very fortunate to have them today,” RMHNY’s Chairman of the Greek Division Spiros Maliagros told The National Herald.

He also noted that “over the last 39 years, more than ten thousand Greek families have come to the Ronald McDonald House from Greece, Cyprus, and America. We help them in any way that we can. Economically, we give them shelter and food, but we also take them to doctors’ appointments.”

Mr. Siamboulis also spoke with TNH and said that he was very touched both by the honor – but also by all the support, economic and psychological, the Ronald McDonald House provides.

He said, “Tonight, Ronald McDonald House honors us for everything we have done over the past 25 years and we will continue to help these children. The Greek Division has done a very good job and helped many Greek children from Greece and Cyprus. Their work is great and because of this we have been and will always be by their side.”

Sofia Milionis, RMHNY Greek Division Executive Committee Member for more than 20 years, pointed out that the advances in medicine have saved the lives of many children compared to previous years. She said, “Previously, the percentage of children who could survive this disease was 20%. Today, with the evolution of medicine, the rate has been reversed and reaches 80%. I am very touched not only because this event evolved, but also because of the Greek community’s contribution with volunteers and donations. Whenever we need the Greek community, they are always by our side, and that is crucial. We also have a lot of cooperation with Greece. We offer a place where the child can be with his/her family in an environment where he/she has the potential to live a relatively normal life. They go to events at the theater and play with other children who have similar illnesses. With donations from the Greek community and great support from home there is a priority for children coming from Greece and Cyprus.”

Spiridoula Katechis, Greek Division Director, told TNH that “the Greek Division was started by Niki Sideris 39 years ago but thankfully the Greeks of our community continue to support us even today. It is truly a spectacular mission. I have been involved in the Greek Division for 16 years and I feel proud of what we are doing for these children.”

The musical entertainment for the evening was provided by singer Aphrodite Daniel and Phyto Stratis on piano.