Halifax, Nova Scotia — January 5, 2026
Ronald McDonald House Maritimes is proud to announce the appointment of Jennifer Punch as its new Chief Executive Officer, as the charity prepares for continued growth in response to rising demand for services in 2026.
In 2025, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes supported 1,043 families — an increase of 53% over 2024, providing 9,011 overnight stays and helping families remain close to their seriously ill or injured children during critical moments of care. In April 2025, the charity opened the doors of a new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax, doubling capacity to support families. With a full year in this facility, 2026 is set to see further increased utilization, met by deepened support from the Maritime community.
“Family is at the heart of Ronald McDonald House and at the heart of Maritimers. With growing demand for our programs across the region, our focus remains clear: ensuring families never have to choose between being close to their child and managing the financial and emotional strain of medical care. As we enter this exciting and pivotal chapter for Ronald McDonald House Maritimes, I am honoured to join this vital organization to continue to build on the strong foundation for Maritime families when they need it most.”
-Jennifer Punch, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes
Jennifer brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in marketing, communications, and organizational management, with a career rooted in building strong brands and community connections across the Maritimes. A graduate of Mount Saint Vincent University, she has held senior leadership roles in media, education, and the non-profit sector, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Discovery Centre, where she led operations, revenue growth, and visitor experience for families and students. Known for her collaborative leadership and commitment to community impact, Jennifer has worked closely with Maritime businesses, volunteers, and national partners to strengthen organizations that serve families. As a longtime supporter of Ronald McDonald House Maritimes, she brings both professional expertise and a deep personal commitment to supporting families across the region.
The appointment of Punch follows a milestone year for the organization. In 2025, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes reached record occupancy levels across its Ronald McDonald House® and Ronald McDonald House Family Room® programs, alleviating an estimated $5+ million in out-of-pocket expenses families would incur without Ronald McDonald House Maritimes. Families traveled from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and beyond to access specialized or emergency pediatric care, often staying for extended periods while their children received treatment.
“Strong leadership is critical as demand for our services continues to grow. Jennifer brings the experience, compassion, and vision needed to lead our organization into its next phase of growth, while staying deeply rooted in our mission of keeping Maritime families close when it matters most.”
-Ashley Wager, Board Chair, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes
As pediatric healthcare needs continue to rise across the region, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes is preparing for increased demand in 2026. Projections indicate the organization will support more than 1,400 families this year, representing an anticipated increase of 35%, as more families seek care at regional hospitals and specialized treatment centres, relying on supports at Ronald McDonald House Maritimes.
“Our mission has never been more urgent. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and partners, we are ready to meet this growing need with compassion, stability, and hope.”
-Jennifer Punch, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Maritimes
About Ronald McDonald House Maritimes
Ronald McDonald House Maritimes helps keep families close to each other and the care they need when they need it most. Their programs include a Ronald McDonald House® in Halifax, a home-away-from-home for families traveling with ill or injured children, and Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms® in Halifax and Moncton, which provide families an oasis of calm and support inside the walls of the hospital.
Quick Facts
* Based on a 2023 RBC economic impact survey
** Ronald McDonald House Canada
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Media Contact
Austin Clem
Director, Communications
782-414-2731
