Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Albany, N.Y., earmarked a portion of all November proceeds to illuminate the Ronald McDonald House in traditional holiday lights and to purchase holiday gifts for its young residents.

Partial proceeds from the sale of jewelry in November also went toward purchasing thousands of dollars’ worth of presents for children staying at the house and others returning for a visit during the Ronald McDonald House’s annual holiday party Dec. 16.

Each year, the Ronald McDonald House Charities invites former guests and their families “back home” for a holiday party where children can relax and visit with friends while enjoying food and beverages. Each child received a bag of small gifts from Santa as well as one special “big gift,” courtesy of Northeastern Fine Jewelry.

Providing comfort, support, and respite for families of seriously ill children in a compassionate and homelike environment, the Ronald McDonald House was initiated in 1974 to offer a home away from home for children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. Since that time, more than 10 million families worldwide have benefited.