Wellington Phoenix Raise Over $70K in ‘Match For Good’ to Support Ronald McDonald House Charities

WELLINGTON —
Wellington Phoenix have once again proven that football is about more than just results on the pitch. Through their heartwarming Match For Good initiative, the club has successfully raised $70,281 for Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) New Zealand, supporting families with children undergoing medical treatment away from home.

In a powerful display of community spirit and purpose-driven football, the Phoenix men’s team took to the field in a custom-designed RMHC kit during their Round 24 clash against the Western Sydney Wanderers at Sky Stadium. These unique jerseys didn’t just look different—they carried deep personal meaning. Each shirt featured the name of a child and the number of nights their family stayed at a Ronald McDonald House.

Following the match, the player-worn kits were auctioned, raising $12,222 on their own. But the support didn’t stop there.

Fans and customers stepped up in droves, with $28,000 donated at McDonald’s kiosks and drive-thrus nationwide in the lead-up to the match. In a major show of solidarity, McDonald’s franchisees across Aotearoa matched every dollar, effectively doubling the contribution.

Meanwhile, official kit supplier Paladin Sports added to the total by pledging $10 for every replica RMHC jersey sold, generating an additional $1,640.

“Thank you to everyone who donated to a cause we’re deeply passionate about,” said David Dome, Wellington Phoenix General Manager. “We’re especially grateful to our premium partner McDonald’s. Their franchisees went above and beyond by matching every donation made at their restaurants.”

“We’ve supported Ronald McDonald House Wellington for years and understand how crucial their work is. These donations will fund hundreds of stays for families in need across Aotearoa.”

A Legacy of Support

The impact of RMHC® New Zealand extends far beyond the walls of a hospital. The charity provides free accommodation and holistic family support to more than 3,500 families annually, enabling them to focus on what matters most: being together during one of the most challenging times in their lives.

Through its Ronald McDonald House and Family Room programs, RMHC® NZ relieves the financial and logistical pressures of having a child in hospital away from home—offering everything from warm meals and a place to sleep, to emotional support.

And thanks to efforts like the Match For Good, their work can continue stronger than ever.

Key Highlights:

• 💛 $70,281 raised for RMHC® New Zealand

• 👕 $12,222 generated through jersey auction

• 🍟 $28,000 donated by McDonald’s customers — matched by franchisees

• 🟡 $1,640 raised by Paladin Sports through kit sales

• 🙌 3,500+ families supported annually by RMHC® NZ