RMHC Dayton has been serving families for 46 years. In our previous post, we shared why Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply is partnering with RMHC Dayton for 2026. That story started with Matt’s niece Maddy, her treatment at St. Jude, and the two months her mom Julie spent living at a Ronald McDonald House in Memphis. It ended with a simple idea: go local.

Now we want to talk about the organization itself. Not the partnership mechanics or the yard sign discount. Those details are coming in our next post. Right now, we want to answer a more basic question: what does RMHC Dayton actually do, and why does it matter so much?

Most people have a general sense. It’s housing for families with ill or injured kids. That’s accurate, but it barely scratches the surface.

Picture a family driving into Dayton from two hours away. Their child was just referred to a specialist at Dayton Children’s Hospital. They don’t know how long treatment will take. Could be days. Could be weeks. Could be a lot longer. They’ve packed a bag, called out of work, and arranged for someone to watch their other kids. They’re exhausted and scared, and they haven’t even started yet.

Now picture them pulling up to 555 Valley Street. That’s where the Ronald McDonald House sits. Directly across the street from the hospital. And what happens next can change the entire shape of their experience.

More Than a Place to Sleep

The phrase “home away from home” gets used a lot. It can sound like marketing. In the case of the Ronald McDonald House, it’s closer to a literal description.

Families who stay at the house on Valley Street aren’t checking into a hotel. They’re moving into a temporary home during one of the hardest stretches of their lives. The House is set up to feel that way.

Each family gets a private guest suite. After the 2025 expansion, the House has 42 of them, designed to accommodate families of different sizes. Not tiny hospital rooms. Not cramped hotel doubles. Actual living space with room for parents and siblings. The architect, Chas Wiederhold from GBBN, described the approach as designing “through the eyes of a child,” making sure the spaces worked for the smallest people who’d be living in them.

A guest suite at RMHC Dayton.

There are communal kitchens where families store their own food and cook their favorite comfort meals. Volunteers and local businesses regularly sponsor hot meals for everyone. Home-cooked meals show up multiple times a week. There’s on-site laundry, so nobody has to figure out where the nearest laundromat is while their child is in treatment. Personal care items are provided. Play spaces give children, especially healthy siblings who’ve been uprooted from their routines, a place to just be kids for an hour.

The 2025 expansion added outdoor recreation areas for a breath of fresh air. For families spending their days inside hospital rooms and their nights worrying, having access to green space and fresh air isn’t a luxury. It’s a pressure valve.

And then there’s the part that’s hardest to put on a brochure. The community.

When Julie was living at the Ronald McDonald House in Memphis during Maddy’s treatment, she described it as a place where you didn’t have to explain yourself. Every family under that roof was dealing with something similar. The late-night conversations in the kitchen. The nod in the hallway from another parent who gets it. The absence of the question “so what’s going on with your kid?” because everyone already knows the answer is some version of “something terrible, and we’re getting through it.”

That kind of understanding doesn’t come from a building. It comes from the people inside it. But the building makes it possible.

Now consider the alternative. Without a Ronald McDonald House, that family from two hours away is looking at hotel bills they can’t afford, fast food from the hospital cafeteria, sleeping in waiting room chairs, driving back and forth until the gas money runs out. Some families face the impossible choice between being at their child’s bedside and going home to take care of their other children, keeping their job, or just sleeping in a real bed.

RMHC Dayton exists so that choice doesn’t have to be made.

Three Programs, One Mission

Most people think of Ronald McDonald House as a single building. In Dayton, it’s actually three separate programs serving families in different situations. All three are free. All three operate under the same principle: families are strongest when they’re together, and a child’s recovery depends on more than what happens in the treatment room.

The Ronald McDonald House — 555 Valley Street

The House itself is the flagship program. Open 365 days a year, it provides overnight lodging for families whose children are hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment at one of seven medical service partners in the region.

After the 2025 expansion, the house has 42 private guest rooms across three finished floors. Families pay nothing for their stay. No room charges. No fees for meals, laundry, or any of the support services. The House provides everything a family needs so they can focus entirely on their child.

Some families stay for a few nights while their child has a procedure. Others stay for weeks during a course of treatment. And some stay much longer. One family stayed for 373 consecutive nights. Another surpassed 394 nights while their child received complex care for craniofacial injuries. Those numbers represent months upon months of a family’s life spent inside the House, and every night was provided at no cost.

Families come from across Ohio and well beyond. Rural communities with no pediatric specialists nearby. Neighboring states. In some cases, families have traveled from other countries, including Bangladesh, Mexico, and Nigeria, to access the pediatric care available in Dayton.

Celebrating 10 years in Dayton Children’s Hospital.

Opened in 2016, the Family Room operates differently from the House. It’s located inside Dayton Children’s Hospital, steps from the pediatric ward.The Family Room exists for a specific situation: when a parent can’t leave the building. Maybe their child is in critical condition and the medical team could need them at any moment. Maybe they just finished a 14-hour day at their child’s bedside and they need somewhere to sit that isn’t a plastic chair in a fluorescent hallway.

The Family Room gives parents a place to shower, eat a meal, rest on an actual couch, and decompress without leaving the hospital. It’s not overnight lodging. It’s a space designed to keep parents functional and present during the hours when they need to be closest to their child.

For a parent whose kid is in the ICU, walking across the street to the Ronald McDonald House might feel like too far. The Family Room puts support within a few dozen steps of the bedside.

Emmett’s Place at Miami Valley Hospital

The third program opened in 2017 at Miami Valley Hospital, and it carries a name with a story behind it.

Emmett Mikael Sorensen was born prematurely. He passed away shortly after birth. His parents, Dr. Derek and Emily Sorensen, wanted Emmett’s brief life to leave a lasting mark. They partnered with RMHC Dayton and the Miami Valley Hospital Foundation to create a Family Room specifically for NICU families and high-risk pregnant women.

Emmett’s Place serves a population with its own particular set of challenges. Premature births are sudden. There’s no time to plan, no time to pack. A mother who was expecting a routine appointment may find herself admitted for an emergency delivery and then watch her newborn fight for survival in an incubator. The father may be shuttling between the hospital and home, trying to manage work and other children while processing what just happened.

Emmett’s Place gives those families a space to breathe inside the hospital. A small sanctuary in the middle of a crisis they didn’t see coming. Every family who uses it benefits from a gift that started with grief and was transformed into something that helps others every single day.

The Ronald McDonald Family Room (Dayton Children’s Hospital)
A rest-and-regroup space inside the hospital for parents who can’t leave the building. Shower, eat, and decompress steps from your child’s bedside.

Emmett’s Place (Miami Valley Hospital)
A Family Room for NICU families and high-risk pregnant women. Named in memory of Emmett Mikael Sorensen.

The Families

Statistics tell part of the story. In 2021, RMHC Dayton served more than 15,000 guests. That same year, the organization saved families an estimated $1.15 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging, food, and transportation. Those are meaningful numbers.

But numbers don’t capture what it feels like to eat a meal with your spouse for the first time in four days because someone set up a Family Room down the hall from your child’s ICU bed.

The Sheehan family knows that feeling. Their son Logan faced a life-threatening battle with septic shock. During his treatment at Dayton Children’s, the Family Room became a lifeline. For the first time in days, Logan’s parents were able to sit down together, eat a meal, and take a breath. Not far from their son. Not at home while he was in the hospital. Just down the hall.

After Logan recovered, the Sheehans didn’t walk away. They became donors and volunteers. That pattern repeats itself often at RMHC Dayton. Families who were once guests come back to help the next family walking through the door. Volunteers cook the dinners. Former guests organize fundraisers. The cycle of gratitude, as RMHC describes it, is one of the things that keeps the organization running.

A volunteer-prepared meal at RMHC Dayton.

The long-term stays are perhaps the hardest to wrap your head around. A few nights is one thing. A few weeks is difficult. But some families have stayed at RMHC Dayton for over a year. Three hundred and seventy-three nights. Three hundred and ninety-four nights. Those stays represent children with cancer, craniofacial conditions, and other diagnoses that require months of treatment, surgery, recovery, and follow-up. For those families, the Ronald McDonald House isn’t temporary housing. It is, for all practical purposes, where they call home while their child fights to get better.

And the geographic range of families served says something important about Dayton’s role in pediatric medicine. The house has hosted families from rural Ohio communities with no nearby children’s hospitals. Families from Indiana, Kentucky, and other neighboring states. Families from Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Mexico, who traveled thousands of miles because a specialist in Dayton offered their child’s best chance.

For all of them, the cost of the room was the same: nothing.

Built Through the Eyes of a Child

For most of its history, RMHC Dayton operated out of a building that was too small for the demand. The original seven-bedroom house opened in 1980. A larger facility with 14 guest rooms replaced it in 1998. But the region’s growth as a pediatric medical hub outpaced the building.

By 2022, the House was turning away 63% of the families who came to them for housing. Think about that for a moment. For every family that got a room, nearly two families were told there was no space available. In 2024, while the new building was under construction, 906 families were turned away.

Those aren’t just numbers on a report. Each one represents a family with a sick child who needed a place to stay and was told the House was full.

That reality drove a major capital campaign. A $13 million contribution accelerated the construction timeline by six months. The result is the building that stands on Valley Street today: a 38,000-square-foot, purpose-built Ronald McDonald House with 42 guest rooms across three finished floors.

The new Ronald McDonald House Dayton, completed in 2025.

The design team at GBBN Architects approached the project with a philosophy they described as building “through the eyes of a child.” In practical terms, that meant thinking about how every space in the building would be experienced by kids at different ages and in different physical and emotional states.

Guest suites were “right-sized” to fit families, not just individuals. A mother with three kids needs a different room than a couple with one child. The new house accounts for that. Communal kitchens and dining spaces were designed to bring families together. Isolation is one of the biggest stressors for parents of hospitalized children, and shared meals create small moments of connection that matter more than most people would expect.

The outdoor play areas give families access to nature and fresh air. For children who spend their days in clinical environments, and for parents whose worlds have shrunk to the size of a hospital room, outdoor space isn’t a nice-to-have. It changes the texture of a day.

The expanded house now serves families connected to seven medical service partners in the region, including Dayton Children’s Hospital, Kettering Health Network, Premier Health/Miami Valley Hospital, Brigid’s Path, 4 Paws For Ability, Proton Therapy Center in Liberty Township, and Shriners Children’s Ohio. As Dayton continues to grow as a regional center for pediatric medicine, the need for family lodging grows with it. The merger of the Dayton and Cincinnati chapters into Ronald McDonald House Southwest Ohio, announced in early 2026, positions the organization to serve families across an even broader network in the region.

The new building was designed to change the turnaway number. Whether it’s enough will depend on how fast the region’s pediatric capacity continues to grow. But 42 rooms is a very different story from seven. Or 14.

Why Keeping Families Close Actually Works

There’s a tendency to think of the Ronald McDonald House as a nice thing that a community does for families in need. It is that. But it’s also something more specific, and there’s a growing body of research that supports it.

The academic term is Family-Centered Care. The core idea is straightforward: a child’s family is the most important constant in their life, and the family’s presence during treatment isn’t just comforting. It’s clinically meaningful.

A study published in Medical Care Research and Review surveyed more than 5,400 families and found that parents who stayed at a Ronald McDonald House reported higher involvement in their child’s daily care and a more positive overall hospital experience compared to families who stayed elsewhere. Those aren’t soft metrics. A parent who is rested, fed, and emotionally supported makes better decisions, asks better questions, catches things that overworked medical staff might miss, and provides the kind of steady presence that helps a child cope with treatment.

Sleep is a big part of it. Research has shown that parents who sleep at a Ronald McDonald House get meaningfully better rest than those who sleep in hospital chairs or at bedside. Anyone who has tried to sleep sitting up in a vinyl recliner under fluorescent lights while monitors beep every few minutes can tell you that’s not rest. It’s endurance. And it doesn’t take many nights of that before a parent’s ability to function starts breaking down.

The emotional side matters, too. A study of nearly 500 parents at Ronald McDonald House locations found that more than half experienced clinical anxiety during their child’s hospitalization, and about 20% experienced depression. The communal environment of the house, where families share meals, trade stories, and simply exist alongside others who understand what they’re going through, has been shown to help reduce that psychological burden.

None of this replaces medical treatment. A Ronald McDonald House doesn’t perform surgery or administer chemotherapy. But it creates the conditions that allow the people surrounding a sick child to show up as their best selves during the worst time of their lives. The doctors and nurses handle the medicine. The House handles everything else.

How You Can Support RMHC Dayton

In our next blog post, we’ll lay out the full details of Champion Mulch’s 2026 partnership with RMHC Dayton, including how the $0.50 per yard donation works, the yard sign discount program, the new social media initiative with rotating monthly sponsors, the add-on donation option at checkout, and our fall golf outing.

But you don’t have to wait for that post to get involved. Here are some ways to support RMHC Dayton right now:

Visit the RMHC Dayton website at rmhcdayton.org to learn more about their programs and upcoming events.

Make a direct donation through the RMHC Dayton donation page. Be sure to mention “Champion Mulch” in the comment section if you’d like your donation connected to our partnership.

Check the RMHC Dayton Wish List for items the house needs. Practical things like cleaning supplies, pantry staples, and personal care items make a real difference for the families staying there.

Volunteer your time. RMHC Dayton relies on volunteers for everything from preparing meals to organizing activities for families. Contact them through their website to learn about current opportunities.

If you’re a business owner, ask about sponsorship opportunities. Meal sponsorships, event support, and corporate giving all contribute to keeping the House running.

“RMHC Dayton supports families on their healthcare journey and empowers them to show up for their child, well-rested, well-nourished and able to thrive.”

— RMHC Dayton

The House on Valley Street has been taking care of families since 1980. The building is bigger now. The rooms are newer. The programs reach into two hospitals beyond the front door. But the mission hasn’t changed in 46 years. Keep families close. Remove the barriers. Let parents focus on their child.

When you buy mulch from Champion this year, you’re part of that. More on exactly how in our next post.

From January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, Champion Mulch, LLC will donate $0.50 of the purchase price for every retail yard of mulch purchased online at www.gotochampion.com or at participating locations to Ronald McDonald House Dayton to support its mission.

The 2026 Champion Mulch and RMHC Dayton yard sign.

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Next in the series: Mulch for a Cause — the full details of Champion Mulch’s 2026 partnership with RMHC Dayton, including every way you can participate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Ronald McDonald House?
A: Ronald McDonald House provides free temporary housing for families whose children are receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals. Families get a private room, access to meals and kitchens, laundry, and support services at no cost.

Q: Who can stay at the RMHC Dayton house?
A: Families of children being treated at one of RMHC Dayton’s seven medical service partners in the region. Families are referred through the hospitals’ social work teams.

Q: How long can families stay?
A: There’s no fixed limit. Some families stay for a few nights, others for weeks or months. The House has accommodated families for over a year when a child’s treatment required it.

Q: Is there a cost to stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
A: No. Families never receive a bill for their room, meals, laundry, or any support services at RMHC Dayton.

Q: What is the Ronald McDonald Family Room?
A: A rest-and-regroup space located inside Dayton Children’s Hospital. It gives parents a place to shower, eat, and take a break without leaving the hospital building. It’s not overnight lodging but a daytime respite space.

Q: What is Emmett’s Place?
A: A Family Room inside Miami Valley Hospital specifically serving NICU families and high-risk pregnant women. It was created in memory of Emmett Mikael Sorensen and is operated by RMHC Dayton.

Q: How is RMHC Dayton funded?
A: Through a combination of individual donations, corporate sponsorships, fundraising events, grants, and support from local McDonald’s owner/operators who have been involved since the organization’s founding in 1980. Volunteers also provide significant in-kind support.

Q: Can I volunteer at RMHC Dayton?
A: Yes. Volunteers help with meal preparation, family activities, facility upkeep, and more. Visit rmhcdayton.org for information on current volunteer opportunities.

Q: How is RMHC Dayton connected to McDonald’s?
A: McDonald’s owner/operators have been founding partners and ongoing supporters of RMHC Dayton since 1978. While RMHC operates as an independent nonprofit, McDonald’s provides significant corporate support and local franchisees serve on the board of trustees and contribute to fundraising efforts.

Q: How does Champion Mulch’s partnership support RMHC Dayton?
A: Champion Mulch donates $0.50 from every retail yard of mulch sold in 2026 to RMHC Dayton. Customers can also participate through the $3 yard sign discount, add-on donations at checkout, and a social media program. You can also donate directly at rmhcdayton.org/donate (please mention “Champion Mulch” in the comment box so they know we sent you). Full details about all partnership programs are coming in our next blog post.

Q: Where is the Ronald McDonald House in Dayton?
A: 555 Valley Street, Dayton, Ohio, directly across from Dayton Children’s Hospital.

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Sources

• RMHC Dayton
• RMHC Dayton: Expansion
• Medical Care Research and Review: Ronald McDonald House Study
• Ronald McDonald House: Our History

The post Inside the House on Valley Street: What RMHC Dayton Does for Families with Ill or Injured Children appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

In 2025, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to raise money for childhood cancer research. You showed up. You bought mulch. You put yard signs in your front lawns. You added donations at checkout. And together, we raised support for an organization that does extraordinary work for sick children and their families.

We are grateful for that year. St. Jude cared for Matt’s niece, Maddy, in ways we’ll never forget. Our customers stepped up too, and we’re grateful for every person who participated. We are proud of what we accomplished together. If you missed the story behind that partnership, you can read the full series here:

• Why St. Jude Matters to Us
• Mulch that Matters: How Champion Mulch is Supporting St. Jude
• Beyond Treatment: What Makes St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Special
• Join Champion Mulch in Supporting St. Jude

Now, as we head into 2026, we’re bringing that same commitment closer to home. Champion Mulch is partnering with Ronald McDonald House Dayton to support families with sick children right here in Southwest Ohio.

The $0.50-per-retail-yard of mulch donation is back. The $3 yard sign discount is back. And we’ve added some new ways for customers and local businesses to get involved.

But before we get into the details of the partnership (that’s coming in a future post), we want to share the reason behind this move. Because, like the St. Jude partnership, it starts with family.

The Part of the Story We Haven’t Told Yet

If you followed our St. Jude blog series, you know the story of Matt’s niece Maddy. Diagnosed with ependymoma, a type of brain cancer, at just nine months old. Surgery at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. Proton radiation therapy at St. Jude in Memphis under the care of Dr. Merchant, one of the leading specialists in the country for her specific type of cancer.

What we haven’t talked about much is where Maddy and her mom, Julie, actually lived during those months of treatment.

They lived at the Ronald McDonald House in Memphis.

For roughly two months, that building was home. Not a hotel. Not a waiting room. Home. And the experience left a mark on Julie and on Matt that has a lot to do with why we’re here now.

Maddy and her brother Lucas during their stay at the Ronald McDonald House in Memphis.

What Ronald McDonald House Meant to Julie and Maddy

Julie and Maddy moved into the Ronald McDonald House after an initial stretch in short-term housing near the St. Jude campus. The transition came at a point when the length of treatment became clearer and more permanent housing was needed. Ron, Julie’s husband, and their son, Lucas, who was in kindergarten at the time, stayed back in Ohio. While Julie and Maddy were in Memphis, Matt’s wife, Kasie, along with Matt and Julie’s mom and stepdad, helped support Ron by caring for Lucas as needed. Matt would later travel to Memphis to visit Julie and Maddy during their stay at the Ronald McDonald House.

When Treatment and Distance Collide

The separation was hard. Two months of Julie caring for a toddler going through daily radiation, mostly on her own, in a city far from everyone she knew. Maddy had a difficult time adjusting to the daily sedation required for her treatments, and sleep became a battle for both of them.

“It was a struggle emotionally having to care for her alone when we were both so tired and stressed all the time,” Julie recalls. “But we got through it. We were both homesick, but we got through it one day at a time.”

In the middle of all that, the Ronald McDonald House provided something that may be hard to appreciate unless you’ve been in a similar situation. It provided the ordinary things. The normal, everyday things that disappear when your child is being treated for cancer in a city 500 miles from home.

Everyday Things That Felt Like Home

Each family had their own room. There was a large shared kitchen with individual refrigerator sections so families could store their own food and cook meals they actually wanted to eat. A continental breakfast was available every weekday morning. There was even a pantry that stayed stocked with snacks and easy meals, free for the taking. Churches and local businesses sponsored dinners for everyone several times a week. Washers and dryers were available to anyone who needed them. A shuttle also ran to St. Jude, grocery stores, and nearby shopping centers so families without a car could still get where they needed to go.

For kids, the house had playrooms, craft rooms, and game rooms. There was a playground outside and bikes for the children to ride. When Lucas visited, he loved it. Julie says he still talks about wanting to go back.

Even the parents got small moments of relief. Volunteers would come in to offer quick massages. There were music activities and other events designed to give families a brief break from the weight of what they were carrying.

“They tried to make it as accommodating as they could,” Julie says. “Many families stayed at RMH for up to six months.”

None of it was flashy. There were no grand gestures or big announcements. It was laundry. It was pizza from Domino’s and a two-liter of soda delivered every day if you wanted it. It was a place where you didn’t have to explain to anyone why you were crying in the hallway at midnight, because every other family there understood without being told.

What Matt Saw in Memphis

Matt spent some time visiting Julie and Maddy at both St. Jude and the Ronald McDonald House during treatment. In his own words, the experience was life-changing.

“Spending time with both organizations in Memphis was life-changing for me,” Matt has said. “Watching the children function every day with the help of St. Jude and Ronald McDonald House was amazing. I feel some of those families wouldn’t be able to get the care they needed if it weren’t for those two organizations. I want to do everything I can to help those children and those organizations.”

“I want to do everything I can to help those children and those organizations.”

— Matt, Owner, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply

That last sentence is worth reading again. Those organizations. Plural. From the beginning, Matt’s desire to give back wasn’t limited to St. Jude alone. The Ronald McDonald House was always part of the picture. St. Jude came first because of the direct connection to Maddy’s medical care. But the Ronald McDonald House sat right alongside it in Matt’s mind as an organization that made a real difference for his family.

When it came time to think about 2026 and what Champion’s next charitable partnership would look like, the conversation kept coming back to the same idea: go local.

Why Local Matters

The decision to partner with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton came down to a few practical realities.

Champion Mulch operates four locations in Southwest Ohio. Our customers live in Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, West Chester, and the surrounding communities. RMHC Dayton is right down the street from our main Valley Street location in Dayton. Our delivery trucks run these roads every day. The families that RMHC Dayton serves are our neighbors. In some cases, they may be our customers.

What a Local Partnership Makes Possible

Supporting a local organization means the impact stays visible. For example, customers can drive past the Ronald McDonald House on Valley Street in Dayton and see the building that their mulch purchases help support. In addition, employees can volunteer there. Looking ahead, we’re planning a golf outing this fall, similar to the one we held for St. Jude in 2025, and being local makes events like that easier to organize and better attended.

There’s also something to be said for the simplicity of a local partnership. With a local relationship, there are fewer layers between Champion and the organization we’re supporting. That means more direct involvement. It also creates more opportunities for our team and our customers to see where the money goes and what it does.

“Champion is here to give good customer service, a good product, and an opportunity to help a great organization with a simple purchase,” Matt has said. That philosophy hasn’t changed. The organization has.

A Natural Fit for Southwest Ohio

And frankly, it’s a good fit. Champion is a Southwest Ohio company. RMHC Dayton is a Southwest Ohio organization. The families they serve come to Dayton for treatment at Dayton Children’s Hospital, Kettering Health Network, Premier Health/Miami Valley Hospital, Brigid’s Path, 4 Paws For Ability, Univ. Of Cincinnati Cancer Center, and Shriners’ Children’s Ohio.

When those families need a place to stay, they go to the Ronald McDonald House. Supporting that work just makes sense for who we are and where we operate.

About Ronald McDonald House Dayton

A lot of people have heard of Ronald McDonald House. Most people have a general sense that it provides housing for families with sick children. But the specifics of what the Dayton chapter does, and how much it’s grown, may surprise you.

The original 7-bedroom Ronald McDonald House Dayton at 741 Valley Street. Right: Ronald McDonald House Dayton at 555 Valley St. before the new building was built.

Ronald McDonald House Dayton has been serving families since 1980, when its first seven-room house opened at 741 Valley Street across from Dayton Children’s Hospital. It was the 14th Ronald McDonald House in the world. Local McDonald’s owner/operators provided key early support that helped make the House possible, and they’ve remained closely involved ever since.

For nearly two decades, that modest house served families traveling to Dayton for their children’s medical care. But as Dayton Children’s Hospital expanded its oncology, cardiology, and neonatal intensive care specialties, seven bedrooms weren’t enough.

In 1998, the organization moved to a new, purpose-built 14-room facility at 555 Valley Street. The original house on Valley Street was later purchased by Dayton Children’s Hospital and became the home of CARE House, Montgomery County’s children’s advocacy center, so the building continued to serve vulnerable children in a different way.

From One House to Three Programs

By the mid-2010s, the Dayton chapter had grown from a single house into three distinct programs.

The Ronald McDonald House at 555 Valley Street provides overnight lodging for families.

The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Dayton Children’s Hospital, opened in 2016, gives parents a place to eat, shower, and rest just steps from their child’s bedside.

Emmett’s Place at Miami Valley Hospital, opened in 2017, is a Family Room dedicated to NICU families and high-risk pregnant women, created in partnership with the family of Emmett Sorensen.

The Need for Expansion

Even with three programs, demand continued to outpace capacity. In fact, in one recent year, RMHC Dayton served more than 2,500 guests from dozens of counties, states, and countries, and still had to turn away hundreds of families due to a lack of available rooms.

That need drove a major expansion. As a result, a new, roughly 38,000-square-foot Ronald McDonald House has been built at 555 Valley Street, designed to increase capacity from 14 rooms to 42 private guest rooms across three finished floors and a partial basement. The facility was designed specifically for families with hospitalized children: guest suites that accommodate larger families, communal kitchens and dining areas where parents can connect with others going through similar experiences, and indoor and outdoor play spaces, including a sensory garden and a natural play area for children.

The expanded house is now fully open and serving families. It was built to reduce the number of families turned away for lack of space, and the need for community support hasn’t slowed down as Dayton continues to grow as a regional hub for pediatric medicine.

Inside Ronald McDonald House Dayton: A guest bedroom, a family gathering area, and the shared kitchen where families can cook and find pantry staples.

What Ronald McDonald House Provides for Families

Overall, the services RMHC Dayton provides aren’t complicated to explain. But they matter more than most people realize until they’re the ones who need them.

Families staying at the Ronald McDonald House do not pay for their room, meals, or onsite support services. No hotel bill. No charge for the pantry. No fee for laundry, family activities, or the other basics that make day-to-day life easier when a child is in the hospital.

For families traveling from rural Ohio, neighboring states, or, in some cases, other countries, the financial relief alone is significant. In one recent year, for example, RMHC Dayton estimated that it saved families roughly $1.22 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging, food, and transportation.

Why These Services Matter So Much

But the value goes beyond money. Studies of Ronald McDonald House programs and similar family-centered lodging models consistently show that keeping families close to the hospital improves parents’ rest, involvement in care, and overall experience during treatment. Parents who sleep at a Ronald McDonald House tend to get more rest than those sleeping in hospital chairs, they’re more present for daily care decisions, and they report a more positive experience during what is often the hardest period of their lives.

Some families stay for a few nights. Others stay for months. In some cases, the Dayton house has had families stay for extended periods while their children received complex, long-term treatment. Throughout it all, the house provides a community of people who understand what you’re going through without needing it explained to them.

Julie experienced that firsthand in Memphis. The same model, the same mission, operates right here in Dayton. And now, Champion Mulch is part of supporting it.

What’s Coming in 2026

We’ll share the full details of our partnership with RMHC Dayton in an upcoming blog post, including exactly how the programs work and all the ways you can participate. For now, here’s a quick overview of what’s in store:

How the 2026 Program Will Work

A portion from every retail yard of mulch purchased at any Champion location or online at www.gotochampion.com will be donated to RMHC Dayton throughout 2026.

The yard sign discount returns. Display a Champion Mulch / RMHC Dayton yard sign in your front yard and receive $3 off per cubic yard of mulch.

Add-on donations will be available at checkout. Customers can contribute any amount directly to RMHC Dayton with any purchase.

A new social media program gives customers another way to get involved. Post a photo of your Champion yard sign, tag us, and a rotating monthly sponsor will donate $1 to RMHC Dayton for each post. Every post also earns you an entry into our July 4th Giveaway for a $300 Champion Gift Card.

A fall golf outing is in the works to bring the community together for RMHC Dayton.

Direct donations can be made at any time through the RMHC Dayton donation page. If you’d like your donation connected to Champion Mulch’s partnership, mention Champion Mulch in the comments.

More details on all of these programs are coming soon.

Full Circle

Five years ago, Julie was warming up food in a shared kitchen at the Ronald McDonald House in Memphis while her 14-month-old daughter recovered from another round of radiation down the street. Ron was back in Ohio, trying to keep things together for Lucas. Matt ran the business and made a trip to Memphis when he could. The whole family was stretched thin and holding on.

Maddy is in first grade now. Cancer-free since January 2022. She’s making friends, hitting milestones, and doing the things kids are supposed to do.

Of Course, Ronald McDonald House didn’t treat Maddy’s cancer. Her medical teams at St. Jude and at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus did that. But the Ronald McDonald House gave Julie and Maddy a place to sleep, a kitchen to cook in, a community that understood, and a roof over their heads while the doctors did their work. It kept the family together when everything was trying to pull them apart.

That’s what RMHC Dayton does for families in Southwest Ohio every single day. And now, when you buy mulch from Champion, you’re part of keeping that going.

We didn’t choose RMHC Dayton because it looked good on a flyer. We chose it because our family lived it. Because the need is real, it’s local, and it’s growing. Even with a brand-new 42-room house on Valley Street, hundreds of families were turned away in the years before it opened, simply because there wasn’t enough space. The building is bigger now. The need for support isn’t smaller.

Every yard helps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Champion Mulch switch from St. Jude to RMHC Dayton?
A: We’re incredibly grateful for our 2025 partnership with St. Jude and everything it accomplished. For 2026, we wanted to bring our charitable efforts closer to home by supporting a local organization in Southwest Ohio. RMHC Dayton serves families right here in our community, and our family has a personal connection to Ronald McDonald House through Julie and Maddy’s stay at RMH Memphis during Maddy’s cancer treatment.

Q: How does the RMHC Dayton partnership work?
A: From January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, Champion Mulch will donate $0.50 from every retail yard of mulch purchased at any of our four locations or online at www.gotochampion.com. We’ll share the full details of all the ways to participate in an upcoming blog post.

Q: Is the yard sign discount still available?
A: Yes. Display a Champion Mulch / RMHC Dayton yard sign in your front yard and receive $3 off per cubic yard of mulch. Signs are available at all Champion locations, or we’ll bring one with your delivery.

Q: Can I still add a donation at checkout?
A: Yes. Customers can add $1, $3, or $5 to any purchase, and 100% of those add-on donations go directly to RMHC Dayton.

Q: What is the social media posting program?
A: New for 2026. Take a photo of your Champion yard sign in your yard, post it on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, and tag Champion Mulch. A rotating monthly sponsor will donate $1 to RMHC Dayton for every post. Each post also earns you one entry into our July 4th Giveaway for a $300 Champion Gift Card. Details are on the flyer you’ll receive with your yard sign.

Q: Can I make a donation without buying mulch?
A: Absolutely.If you’d like to make a direct donation to RMHC Dayton, you can give online at
rmhcdayton.org/donate.
When you give, please mention “Champion Mulch” in the comment or notes section so their team can track gifts that came through this partnership.

Q: What does RMHC Dayton actually do?
A: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton provides free housing and support for families with children receiving medical treatment at area hospitals and other area partners, including Dayton Children’s Hospital, Kettering Health Network, Premier Health/Miami Valley Hospital, Brigid’s Path, 4 Paws For Ability, Univ. Of Cincinnati Cancer Center, and Shriners’ Children’s Ohio. Families pay nothing for their room, meals, or support services. The organization also operates Family Rooms inside Dayton Children’s Hospital and Miami Valley Hospital, where parents can rest and regroup without leaving the building.

Q: Where is the Ronald McDonald House in Dayton?
A: 555 Valley Street, directly across from Dayton Children’s Hospital. The facility recently completed a major expansion and now has 42 guest rooms.

Q: Is Champion Mulch planning any events for RMHC Dayton?
A: Yes. A fall golf outing is in the works, and we’ll share details as they come together. Follow us on social media for updates.

Q: Will there be more information about this partnership?
A: Yes. This is the first of three blog posts. The next post will take a closer look at RMHC Dayton’s programs and the families they serve. The third will cover all the details of how you can participate throughout 2026.

From January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply will donate $0.50 of the purchase price for every retail yard of mulch purchased online at www.gotochampion.com or at participating locations to Ronald McDonald House Dayton to support its mission.

Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply is donating $0.50 from every retail yard of mulch sold in 2026 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton.

Next in the series: Inside The House On Valley Street: What RMHC Dayton Does For Families With Ill Or Injured Children

The post Closer to Home: Champion Mulch’s New Chapter with Ronald McDonald House Dayton appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

Updated for the 2026 spring season.

Spring Landscaping in Southwest Ohio Starts Here

Spring landscaping in Southwest Ohio requires careful timing, the right plants, and a plan that works with the region’s clay soils and unpredictable weather. At Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply, we’ve been supplying materials to professional landscapers and homeowners across Southwest Ohio for over 12 years. We know what our soils need, when the timing matters, and where people tend to run into trouble.

This guide covers the full spring season, from early cleanup tasks in late February through planting and final prep in May. Whether you’re a homeowner refreshing your beds or a landscape professional coordinating multiple jobs, the same principles apply: good materials, right timing, and a clear plan.

“A little planning and timely care can go a long way in keeping your outdoor space healthy and looking sharp through the season.”

— Ryan Dunham, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply

Getting Started: Early Spring Tasks

The first pass through your yard doesn’t need to be complicated. Once daytime temperatures consistently hold above freezing, usually late February into early March in our area, you can start laying the groundwork.

For a month-by-month breakdown you can work through at your own pace, download our Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist. It covers late February through May with task categories, done-by dates, and space for notes.

Want more detail on the cleanup side? Our Spring Yard Cleanup Guide will walk through the full process.

Lawn Care Essentials

When soil temperatures reach about 50–55°F consistently, your lawn starts its active growth cycle. That’s your cue.

“A healthy lawn provides a strong foundation for the entire outdoor space. Begin by cleaning up — rake up leaves, branches, and debris that may have accumulated over the winter. Once the ground is thawed, fertilize and reseed areas that need a little extra attention.”

— Jesse Weidner, Weidner Landscape Solutions

Here’s what to work through in early spring:

• Remove fallen branches, leftover leaves, and debris that can smother grass or create disease conditions
• Use a plug aerator to loosen our region’s often compacted clay soil
• Test your soil through OSU Extension before fertilizing — Southwest Ohio clay soils often have different needs than what a national fertilizer bag assumes
• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to stop crabgrass before it germinates, targeting that 50–55°F soil temperature window
• Begin your spring fertilizer program once the lawn is actively growing
• Fill in winter-damaged bare patches with quality grass seed after aerating

For fertilization, Champion now carries Shaw’s professional turf products from Knox Fertilizer, a manufacturer with over 70 years supplying the professional turf industry. Shaw’s uses SurfCote polymer coating technology, which releases nitrogen more uniformly over time for steadier green-up without the flush growth.

Shaw’s 4-Step Program for Southwest Ohio cool-season lawns:

• Step 1 — Early Spring: Shaw’s 10-0-3 with Dimension (Dithiopyr 0.13%) — pre-emergent and fertilizer in one application, 100% SurfCote for up to 4 months of nitrogen release. Apply when the soil hits 50–55°F.
• Step 2 — Mid-Spring, approx. 6 weeks after Step 1: Shaw’s 15-0-5 with 15.8% VIP — broadleaf weed control post-emergent combined with fertilizer. Apply to actively growing weeds.
• Step 3 — Summer: Shaw’s 24-0-5 with Iron — fertilizer plus 2% iron for color, 30% SurfCote.
• Step 4 — Late Summer/Fall: Shaw’s 30-0-6 50% SurfCote — straight fertilizer with added potassium for drought tolerance going into fall.

For best results, apply fertilizer when the ground is moist but the grass is dry, preferably in the morning. Keep mowing height at 3 inches through spring, gradually moving to 3.5–4 inches in summer to encourage deeper roots. For a deeper dive on fertilizer timing and application, see our Spring Fertilizer Guide.

Mulch Application

Fresh mulch does more than improve appearance. It holds soil moisture during dry stretches, moderates soil temperature, slows weed germination, and adds nutrients as it breaks down over the season.

“Applying a pre-emergent weed preventer as soon as temperatures begin to rise helps slow weeds before they germinate. Refreshing mulch early in the season helps regulate soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and keep your landscape looking clean. It’s a simple step that pays off all the way through summer.”

— Ryan Dunham, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply

For Southwest Ohio gardens, a few of our most popular bulk mulch varieties:

• Ultra Black or Ultra Brown — strong color contrast against plants and shrubs, holds up well through the season
• Cedar Mulch — natural insect resistance and a pleasant aroma
• Brown (Black) Gold — natural appearance with good moisture retention

Additional premium options include Black Platinum, Brown Platinum, Champion Special, Gardener’s Choice, Ultra Red, and Kid’s Carpet. Our full mulch inventory is available for both pickup and bulk delivery, with fast turnaround to keep your projects on schedule.

Apply 2–3 inches of fresh mulch early in the season. Leave a small gap around the base of tree trunks and plant stems. Mulch piled directly against wood holds moisture and encourages rot. For most of Southwest Ohio, late April is a good target once the soil has begun to warm.

Plant Selection for Southwest Ohio

Most of Southwest Ohio sits in USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 6b, which supports a wide variety of plants. But Zone 6 doesn’t mean frost-free in March. A late cold snap well into April is common here, and jumping the season costs time and money.

“Some homeowners rush to plant tender annuals or vegetables too soon, not realizing that frost can still hit in Dayton well into April. Check your local frost dates and wait until the danger has passed. Planting too early risks losing plants to one bad night.”

— Jesse Weidner, Weidner Landscape Solutions

Understanding Frost Dates in Our Region

Average last frost dates for reference:

• Dayton: April 11–20
• Kettering, Centerville, Beavercreek: April 21–30
• Cincinnati: approximately April 19–21

Always cross-check a 10-day forecast before putting anything frost-tender in the ground.

For a full planting calendar with timing by crop and flower type, see our Spring Planting Guide. Here are the varieties that perform well in our climate:

Trees and Shrubs

• Dogwood
• Redbud
• Serviceberry
• Viburnum
• Hydrangea

Perennials

• Coneflower
• Black-eyed Susan
• Daylily
• Salvia
• Coral Bells

Spring Ephemerals (Native to Our Region)

• Virginia Bluebells
• Trillium
• Bloodroot
• Spring Beauty

Plant on a cloudy day or in the evening when possible to reduce transplant shock. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch to hold moisture and moderate soil temperature. On pruning — hold off on spring-blooming shrubs like forsythia, lilac, and azalea until after they finish flowering. Summer-blooming shrubs that flower on new wood, like butterfly bush, can be cut back in early spring.

Garden Bed Preparation

Soil quality shapes everything that grows in it. Southwest Ohio clay soils are workable, but they benefit from organic material every season. Champion carries several options to amend and improve bed performance:

• Processed Topsoil — screened for consistency, good for new beds and raised areas
• Organic Processed Topsoil — blended with organic material for better plant growth and drainage
• Champion Leaf Compost — adds nutrients and improves soil structure over time

When preparing beds:

1. Remove weeds completely, including roots
2. Add 2–3 inches of quality topsoil or compost across the bed
3. Till or work it into the top 6–8 inches for new beds
4. Level and rake smooth before planting

Champion Leaf Compost is a practical choice for beds that have been planted for several seasons and need organic material worked back into the soil.

Hardscape Projects

Spring is the right time to inspect and address hardscape. Freeze-thaw cycles through winter shift pavers, open gaps in retaining walls, and crack mortar joints. Catching these early keeps repairs manageable.

Projects worth tackling before summer:

• Patios and walkways
• Retaining walls — check for shifting or gaps
• Re-leveling sunken or tilted pavers
• Fire pits
• Water features

Champion carries pavers from Unilock, Hessit Works, Oberfields, and Belgard, along with hardscape accessories from Alliance Designer Products, including Gator Base, Gator Cleaners and Sealers, and Gator Binding Agents. Stop into any of our locations and work directly with our team to plan your project with confidence.

Irrigation and Water Management

Overwatering in spring is one of the more common mistakes homeowners make, and it’s easy to understand why. Plants can look stressed after winter and the instinct is to water. But many plants are still partly dormant in early spring and don’t need extra water yet.

“Be mindful of rainfall and check soil moisture before watering. Too much water in cooler, wet spring conditions leads to root rot and fungal issues. If the soil is still damp 2 inches down, skip the watering.”

— Jesse Weidner, Weidner Landscape Solutions

Practical guidelines for spring irrigation:

• Water deeply but infrequently — once or twice per week — to promote deep root development
• Target 1–1.5 inches of water per week for established lawns, combined with natural rainfall
• Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and discourage fungal disease
• For beds, soaker hoses or drip irrigation put water where roots are without soaking foliage

If you have an in-ground irrigation system, bring it back online zone by zone in April, check heads for winter damage or misalignment, and set conservative runtimes for spring before adjusting later in the season.

Spring Lawn Renovation

If your lawn came through winter with damage or thin spots, spring is the time to address it before those areas turn into larger problems later.

1. Rake affected areas to remove dead grass and matted debris
2. Apply a thin layer of topsoil over bare spots
3. Spread quality grass seed appropriate for your sun and shade conditions
4. Lightly rake to ensure good seed-to-soil contact
5. Apply a thin layer of straw or Penn mulch to hold moisture and protect the seed
6. Water lightly and frequently until the seed establishes

In Southwest Ohio, a cool-season mix of Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescues works well in most situations.

Shadier areas do better with a mix that leans toward fine fescues. High-traffic areas benefit from more bluegrass and perennial ryegrass for durability.

Working with Southwest Ohio’s Clay Soils

Clay soils are common throughout Dayton and Cincinnati. They hold nutrients reasonably well but compact easily, drain slowly, and can stay cold later into spring than sandier soils.

Consistent improvement over several seasons makes the most difference:

• Add organic matter like Champion Leaf Compost regularly — the clay structure improves gradually with annual additions
• Core aerate in spring to reduce compaction, particularly in high-traffic areas
• Grade problem spots to prevent water pooling near beds, foundations, or walkways
• Consider raised beds in areas with persistent drainage issues

“Failing to check for proper drainage in garden beds, patios, and lawn areas leads to standing water and potential damage. Make sure key areas drain away from structures. If water pools persistently, install gutters or drainage solutions to direct it away.”

— Jesse Weidner, Weidner Landscape Solutions

After a heavy spring rain, walk your property and note where water sits. Those spots need attention before planting season begins in earnest.

Local Pest and Disease Management

Getting ahead of pests in spring is easier than dealing with them mid-season. Most local experts recommend preventative steps early rather than reactive treatment later.

Watch for these common Southwest Ohio issues:

• Japanese beetles — typically emerge in June, but preventive grub control can be applied in spring
• Bagworms on evergreens — look for egg cases now and treat before populations build
• Mosquitoes and ticks — especially in damp, low-lying areas; eliminate standing water early
• Powdery mildew — more likely during humid stretches
• Fire blight on apples and pears — watch for wilted shoot tips in late spring

Regular inspection of plants through the season catches problems when they’re small. Ask our team at any location about effective solutions for our region.

Enhance Your Outdoor Living Experience

Spring is also a good time to think about outdoor living features that extend how you use your yard into the evenings and into fall.

“Install outdoor lighting to create an inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings. Solar-powered options are easy to install and don’t require running lines. Longer daylight hours mean more time outside, but good lighting keeps things going after dark.”

— Jesse Weidner, Weidner Landscape Solutions

A few additions worth considering:

• Outdoor Lighting — low-voltage path lights, uplighting on trees, string lights over patios
• Fire Pits — one of the highest-use additions in this climate, extending outdoor time well into October
• Paver Patios — spring is the right season to plan and install before summer heat sets in
• Water Features — add sound and visual interest, and they tend to work well in Dayton’s moderate summer climate

A beautiful job done by Jesse Weidner and his team at Weidner Landscape Solutions.

When to Call the Pros

Many spring tasks are well within reach for a capable homeowner. Others benefit from professional help — not because the work is impossible, but because getting it wrong is expensive and professional tools produce better results.

“While many homeowners cut back plants and bushes before winter, we recommend waiting until spring. Pruning in spring allows plants to remain stronger and more resilient through the cold months. When the weather breaks, removing dead or damaged branches promotes healthy growth, proper size control, and a cleaner shape.”

— Ryan Dunham, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply

Projects that hold up better with professional execution:

Complex Landscape Design — Cohesive outdoor space design that balances aesthetics and function across different areas of a property is harder than it looks from a distance.

Drainage Solutions — Our region’s clay soils create drainage problems that need proper engineering. French drains, dry creek beds, and regrading are worth doing correctly the first time.

Tree Care — Certified arborists handle large pruning and removal safely, and can diagnose disease issues that aren’t obvious to the untrained eye.

Irrigation System Installation — Professional installation ensures proper zone coverage, water efficiency, and accurate head placement for your specific layout.

Comprehensive Lawn Renovation — Lawns with significant damage or persistent issues benefit from a professional assessment and a combined approach of aeration, overseeding, fertilization, and weed control.

Hardscape Installation — Proper base preparation, drainage planning, and leveling are the difference between pavers that last decades and ones that start shifting after the first winter.

Champion works closely with landscape professionals throughout the Dayton and Cincinnati area. Ask our team for recommendations if you’re looking for a contractor for your project.

Partner with Champion for Spring Success

Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply delivers to commercial landscapers and homeowners throughout the Dayton and Cincinnati regions. Our four locations in Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester carry everything you need for the full spring season.

This spring, your purchase supports something close to home. When you put out a Champion yard sign, you save $3 per cubic yard of mulch on your order. Post a photo of your sign on social media, tag Champion, and a $1 donation goes to RMHC Dayton from our monthly sponsor. You’ll also earn one entry into our July 4th Giveaway for a chance to win a $300 Champion Gift Card.

The 2026 Champion Mulch and RMHC Dayton yard sign.

 

How to participate:

1. Purchase mulch from any Champion location or online at www.gotochampion.com
2. Display a Champion yard sign in your front yard to receive the $3 per cubic yard discount
3. Snap a photo of your sign and post it on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok — tag us so it counts
4. Or email your photo to social@gotochampion.com and we’ll post it on your behalf and still count your entry and donation

Tag us on social:

• Facebook: @ChampionMulchandLandscapeSupply
• Instagram: @ChampionMulchOH
• TikTok: @ChampionMulchOH

Donate directly: rmhcdayton.org/donate — be sure to mention Champion in the comment box.

Our full product lineup for spring:

• Premium Mulch: Ultra Black, Ultra Brown, Ultra Red, Black Platinum, Brown Platinum, Brown Gold, and more — browse mulch
• Quality Soil: Processed Topsoil, Organic Processed Topsoil, Champion Leaf Compost
• Gravel & Stone: Limestone, River Rock, Decorative Stone — browse stone
• Lawn Care: Shaw’s professional fertilizer programs, grass seed, Earthway spreaders — browse fertilizer
• Professional Hand Tools: A.M. Leonard hand tools
• Hardscape Materials: Pavers from Unilock, Hessit Works, Oberfields, and Belgard

Call or visit any location to talk through your project needs. Bulk delivery is available throughout the Dayton and Cincinnati areas.

Conclusion

Spring landscaping in Southwest Ohio does not have to be overwhelming. With the right timing, the right materials, and a clear plan, you can get ahead of the season and keep your yard and landscape looking sharp all year long.

Quality products make a measurable difference. Our team is stocked and ready at all four locations — Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester. Come in, call ahead, or place your order online at gotochampion.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to apply mulch in Southwest Ohio?

Mid to late spring is the right window for most of our area, typically after the soil has begun to warm but before summer heat sets in. Late April works for most of Southwest Ohio. Apply 2–3 inches thick, leaving a gap around trunks and stems to prevent rot.

How much mulch do I need for my landscape?

For a 2–3 inch application, you’ll need roughly 1 cubic yard of mulch to cover 100–150 square feet. Our team can help calculate the right amount for your beds, so you’re not short or sitting on extra. We carry bagged mulch for smaller projects and offer bulk delivery for larger areas.

What’s the difference between your mulch varieties?

Each variety has different color characteristics and some functional differences. Ultra Black and Brown hold color well and work across most planting situations. Cedar Mulch provides natural insect resistance. Brown Gold has a natural appearance with solid moisture retention. Black Platinum and Brown Platinum are premium-colored options for more formal settings. Stop into any location to see samples side by side before you order.

How do I address drainage issues in my yard?

Minor drainage problems often respond to working in organic matter like Champion Leaf Compost to improve soil structure over time. Persistent standing water typically needs a more direct solution — a dry creek bed to redirect flow, French drains in severe cases, or regrading to eliminate low spots. For significant drainage issues, a professional assessment is worth the investment.

What’s the best grass seed for Southwest Ohio lawns?

For most lawns here, a cool-season mix of Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescues performs well. Shaded areas do better with a blend heavier on fine fescues. High-traffic areas hold up better with more bluegrass and ryegrass for durability. We carry seed options suited to our regional conditions.

When should I fertilize my lawn in spring?

Plan for two spring applications. Round 1 goes down when soil temperatures reach around 55°F consistently — typically early to mid-March in Southwest Ohio — using a product with both fertilizer and pre-emergent. Round 2 follows about six weeks later, in April or early May. Shaw’s 4-Step Program is timed around how Ohio lawns actually grow. For full timing detail, see our upcoming Spring Fertilizer Guide.

Do you deliver to residential addresses?

Yes. Champion delivers bulk materials to residential properties throughout the Dayton and Cincinnati regions. Delivery fees start at $39, and we place materials directly on your property. Call any location to confirm delivery availability and scheduling.

What pavers do you recommend for DIY projects?

Products from Unilock and Belgard with interlocking designs are good starting points for DIY work — they don’t require mortar and are more forgiving than traditional wet-set installations. For specific recommendations based on your project size and location, come into one of our stores and get hands-on advice.

How does the yard sign program work with RMHC Dayton?

Put out a Champion yard sign and receive $3 off per cubic yard of mulch. Post a photo of your sign on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, tag Champion, and $1 is donated to RMHC Dayton from our monthly sponsor. You also receive one entry into the July 4th Giveaway for a $300 Champion Gift Card. If you’d rather not post yourself, email your photo to social@gotochampion.com and we’ll handle it.

Can I make a donation to RMHC Dayton without purchasing mulch?

Yes. You can donate directly at rmhcdayton.org/donate. Be sure to mention Champion in the comment box.

From January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply will donate $0.50 of the purchase price for every retail yard of mulch purchased online at www.gotochampion.com or at participating locations to RMHC Dayton.

The post Spring Landscaping Guide for Southwest Ohio appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

Securing Your Winter Operations: Navigating Southwest Ohio’s 2025-2026 Salt Supply Challenges

The post Securing Your Winter Operations: Navigating Southwest Ohio’s 2025-2026 Salt Supply Challenges appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

The post Join Champion Mulch in Supporting St. Jude appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

What Makes St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® Special

In our previous articles, we shared the personal story behind Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® – sparked by owner Matt Brun’s experience with his niece Maddy’s treatment for brain cancer – and outlined how our mulch purchases will support St. Jude’s mission throughout 2025.

Today, we want to take you deeper into what makes St. Jude truly exceptional. Through our family’s experience and the countless stories of others, we’ve discovered that St. Jude offers something far beyond world-class medical care. They’ve created a comprehensive approach to healing that considers every aspect of a child and family’s well-being during one of life’s most challenging journeys.

The Founding Promise

No Family Receives a Bill

“St. Jude was absolutely awesome,” recalls Julie, Maddy’s mother. “They paid for our travel down to Memphis for two adults and Maddy. Which was huge.”

What many people don’t realize is just how comprehensive St. Jude’s financial commitment to families truly is. When founder Danny Thomas established St. Jude in 1962, he made a revolutionary promise: no family would ever receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

This isn’t merely about covering medical expenses. St. Jude understands that childhood cancer creates financial burdens far beyond hospital bills:

• Transportation costs: St. Jude covers travel expenses to Memphis for the patient and typically two family members
• Housing during treatment: Families are provided with on-campus housing or accommodations at places like the Ronald McDonald House
• Daily meals: Food allowances help families focus on their child’s health, not grocery shopping
• Ongoing care: Even follow-up appointments are covered

“When you are in short-term housing you receive a stipend to eat in their cafeteria and Dominos supplied a large pizza and a two-liter of soda every day if you wanted it,” Julie explains. “When we were moved to the Ronald McDonald House (more long-term housing) I think I received $100 a week for groceries and whatever we needed.”

This comprehensive support system allows parents to focus on what matters most—helping their child heal—rather than worrying about mounting medical bills or how to afford food and lodging during extended stays away from home.

Beyond Medical Treatment

The Whole Child Approach

When Maddy arrived at St. Jude, she wasn’t just a patient with ependymoma. She was a 14-month-old child whose development could be significantly impacted by both her condition and treatment. St. Jude recognized this and provided comprehensive support beyond her medical needs.

“Maddy also had speech, occupational and physical therapy while she was there,” Julie shares. “They have a school on campus so kids can try to keep up with their academics.”

This holistic approach addresses the reality that cancer treatment affects every aspect of a child’s development. St. Jude’s commitment to treating the whole child includes:

• Developmental therapies: Speech, occupational, and physical therapy to minimize developmental delays
• Educational support: On-campus schooling to help patients stay on track academically
• Psychological services: Support for the emotional aspects of childhood cancer
• Child Life specialists: Professionals who help children understand and cope with their medical experiences

For Maddy, these supplementary services were crucial in ensuring that while doctors fought her cancer, her developmental progress wasn’t unnecessarily impeded. These services, like all aspects of care at St. Jude, come at no cost to families.

A Home Away From Home

The Ronald McDonald House Experience

For many families like Julie and Maddy’s, treatment at St. Jude means spending months away from home. The Ronald McDonald House, which partners closely with St. Jude, becomes a sanctuary during this difficult time.

“Maddy and I stayed at RMH for about 2 months,” Julie recalls. “It was our home.”

What makes the Ronald McDonald House extraordinary is how it creates a sense of normalcy and community:

• Private rooms: Giving families personal space while away from home
• Communal kitchen facilities: “Each of us got a big section of a refrigerator and they had multiple stoves/ovens/microwaves that families could use”
• Shared meals: “Businesses and churches would sponsor dinners for everyone and that usually occurred a few times a week”
• Practical amenities: “We also had washers and dryers we could use… they also had a shuttle to St. Jude, grocery stores, shopping centers”
• Child-focused spaces: “There were multiple playrooms for the kids, craft rooms, game rooms. Lucas really liked this when he visited. To this day he still tells me he wants to go back”
• Community support: “They would have people come in to give parents a quick massage and have music and other activities for the kids”

These thoughtful touches transform what could be a sterile, temporary accommodation into a genuine home with a built-in support community of other families who understand exactly what you’re going through.

Global Impact Through Research and Knowledge Sharing

St. Jude’s mission extends far beyond the patients who walk through their doors. As a research institution, they’re committed to advancing treatments for childhood cancer and sharing their discoveries worldwide.

“Supporting St. Jude is so important,” Julie emphasizes. “Not only do they take a huge amount of worry away from families that are going through the unthinkable… They are also a research hospital, so their sole purpose is to find treatments and cures for pediatric cancer.”

St. Jude’s research efforts have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% in 1962 to more than 80% today. But what makes their approach truly special is their commitment to sharing:

• Research collaboration: St. Jude freely shares research findings and discoveries globally
• Treatment protocols: Their clinical treatments and best practices are available to doctors worldwide
• Global outreach: St. Jude works with partners in countries where childhood cancer survival rates remain low

As Julie points out, “St. Jude shares their findings all over the world so it can help everyone, not just their patients. Every dollar counts.”

This global perspective means that supporting St. Jude doesn’t just help the families who receive treatment in Memphis—it advances care for children with cancer everywhere.

The People Who Make the Difference

Behind every medical breakthrough and thoughtful accommodation is the exceptional team of people who make St. Jude what it is.

“Everyone that works there is so nice and helpful,” Julie recalls. “The doctors and nurses are top of the line. They make you feel seen and heard. If I had any concerns they always tried to help.”

From world-renowned oncologists to the cafeteria staff, every person at St. Jude contributes to an atmosphere of compassionate care:

• Medical expertise: Specialists like Dr. Merchant, known as “the ependymoma guy,” represent the pinnacle of specialized knowledge
• Responsive care: “If I had any concerns they always tried to help”
• Holistic support team: Social workers who help coordinate services and support
• Dignity-preserving approach: Even in difficult circumstances, families are treated with respect

This culture of care extends beyond medical treatment. As Julie notes, “They try to make it as cheerful of a place as possible,” despite the serious nature of the conditions being treated.

Filling the Gaps in Childhood Cancer Funding

One of the most sobering realities Julie and Matt learned through their experience is how underfunded childhood cancer research remains nationally.

“The federal government only gives 4% of the cancer research budget to pediatric cancers, the rest goes to adult treatments that can’t be used on children,” Julie points out. “Children are not profitable to the government or big pharma. I think I read that Americans spend more money on Starbucks in 3 DAYS than the federal government spends in ONE YEAR on childhood cancer research.”

This stark reality makes institutions like St. Jude even more crucial. They step in to fill this substantial gap, focusing specifically on developing treatments for children when other funding sources fall short.

A Beacon of Hope in the Darkest Times

Perhaps what truly sets St. Jude apart is something less tangible but equally important—the atmosphere of possibility and hope they cultivate, even in the most difficult circumstances.

When families arrive at St. Jude, they’re often at their most vulnerable, having received devastating news about their child’s health. The hospital environment acknowledges this reality while refusing to surrender to it.

“It’s a beautiful campus and we definitely felt we were in the right place,” Julie remembers. “It’s a mixed bag of emotions because you are surrounded by staff that are so kind and gracious, but you are also surrounded by a lot of sick children… Even with a lot of illness around you, they still make it as cheerful of a place as possible.”

This balance—acknowledging the gravity of childhood cancer while maintaining an environment of possibility and hope—is what makes St. Jude truly special.

Why Your Support Matters

Every dollar donated to St. Jude contributes to this extraordinary ecosystem of care, research, and hope:

• $3 can help provide pediatric isolation masks to protect patients with compromised immune systems
• $10 can help provide a new toy for hospital play areas
• $30 can help provide one meal card for a St. Jude family
• $100 can help provide one red wagon for transportation
• $500 can help provide one hour of physical therapy

Through Champion Mulch’s partnership with St. Jude, every yard of mulch you purchase in 2025 helps support this comprehensive care system that goes so far beyond medical treatment.

Join Us in Supporting St. Jude

As we continue our year-long partnership with St. Jude, we invite you to be part of this mission by:

• Purchasing mulch from any Champion Mulch location or online at www.gotochampion.com
• Displaying a yard sign in your front yard to receive the $3 per cubic yard discount
• Adding a donation of $1, $3, or $5 at checkout
• Customers using our coupons from Clipp and Town Money Saver magazines who also agree to place a sign in their yards can receive an additional $3 off their total order

We invite you to help spread awareness about St. Jude’s mission by sharing your support on social media:

1. Take a photo of your Champion Mulch/St. Jude yard sign in your yard
2. Post it on your social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, X, or LinkedIn)
3. Tag Champion (see below) and St. Jude (@StJude) in your post:
   • Facebook – @ChampionMulchandLandscapeSupply
   • Instagram – @ChampionMulchOH
   • X – @ChampionMulchOH
   • TikTok – @ChampionMulchOH
4. Use the hashtags #MulchThatMatters #ChampionMulchForStJudeKids

Together, we can help ensure that St. Jude continues to provide this exceptional care to children and families facing childhood cancer.

Because at Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply, we believe the most beautiful landscapes grow from purpose and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does St. Jude decide which patients to accept for treatment?
A: St. Jude treats children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. While they typically accept patients who are part of specific clinical trials, they also make exceptions for cases requiring specialized expertise, as they did for Maddy. Patients are accepted based on medical needs regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

Q: If families don’t pay for treatment, how does St. Jude fund its operations?
A: St. Jude relies primarily on individual contributions. Public donations account for approximately 78% – 89% of the funds necessary to operate the hospital and conduct research. The remaining funding comes from grants and other sources. This funding model allows St. Jude to focus solely on providing the best care without financial considerations.

Q: Do families really never receive a bill for anything?
A: Correct. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food. This comprehensive approach ensures that families can focus entirely on helping their child recover rather than worrying about how to pay for life-saving treatments or essential living expenses while away from home.

Q: How long do patients typically stay at St. Jude?
A: Treatment length varies widely depending on the disease and treatment protocol. Some families, like Maddy’s, stay for about two months for focused treatment like radiation therapy. Others may receive treatment at St. Jude for several years, with periods at home between treatment phases. St. Jude works with each family to create treatment plans that best serve the child’s medical needs.

Q: Does St. Jude only treat cancer patients?
A: While St. Jude is best known for treating childhood cancers, they also treat children with other life-threatening diseases, including blood disorders, infectious diseases that affect the immune system, and genetic disorders that increase cancer risk. Their research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms underlying these diseases to develop better treatments.

Q: How does St. Jude’s research benefit children who aren’t treated there?
A: St. Jude freely shares its discoveries, treatment protocols, and research findings worldwide. This means that children being treated at hospitals around the globe benefit from St. Jude’s research without ever visiting Memphis. Their discoveries have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% since the hospital opened in 1962.

Q: Are there specific ways my donation through Champion Mulch supports St. Jude?
A: Every dollar donated helps ensure that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Donations also support cutting-edge research and the development of new treatments. When you purchase mulch from Champion in 2025, you’re contributing to all aspects of St. Jude’s life-saving mission.

Q: How does the yard sign program work with Champion Mulch’s partnership?
A: When you purchase mulch from any Champion location and agree to place a St. Jude/Champion yard sign in your yard, you’ll receive a $3 discount per cubic yard of mulch with code save3. This program helps spread awareness about St. Jude throughout our community while providing you with savings on your landscaping needs. The yard sign discount cannot be combined with any other coupons.

Q: Can commercial landscapers participate in this partnership too?
A: Absolutely! The $0.50 donation* applies to every yard of mulch purchased at our retail locations, whether by homeowners or landscaping professionals. Large commercial customers that require a semi for delivery will not be a part of this program. They can donate directly at our dedicated site https://www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch or speak with Matt, Jeff, Brittany or Nate for more details.**

*From January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, Champion Mulch, LLC will donate $0.50 of the purchase price for every yard of mulch purchased online at www.gotochampion.com or at participating locations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® to support its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

**100% of donations will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® to support its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — so they can focus on helping their child live.

The post Beyond Treatment: What Makes St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® Special appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

How Champion Mulch is Supporting St. Jude

In our previous article, we shared the personal story behind Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®—a connection sparked by owner Matt Brun’s experience with his niece Maddy’s successful treatment for brain cancer at St. Jude.

Today, we’re excited to share the specific details of this partnership and how you—our valued customers—can participate in supporting St. Jude’s mission of “Finding cures. Saving children.”^®

A Partnership with Purpose

Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply’s connection with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^® began informally in 2020, when we first introduced our yard sign discount program as a way to give back. Since then, we’ve been proud supporters of their mission, but we wanted to do more.

As of January 1, 2025, we’ve formalized and expanded this relationship by establishing an official three-year partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®. Now in its fourth month, this collaboration transforms every yard of mulch into an opportunity to support life-saving research and treatment for children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

“We’ve been supporting St. Jude through our yard sign program since 2020,” explains Matt Brun, owner of Champion Mulch. “But after seeing the impact of the work that St. Jude does firsthand through my niece Maddy’s treatment, we wanted to deepen our commitment and create multiple ways for our customers to participate. Your mulch purchase will directly support the incredible work at St. Jude.”

The Donation Program: Every Yard Makes a Difference

The heart of our partnership is straightforward but powerful:

For every yard of mulch purchased at any of our four retail locations or through our website (www.gotochampion.com) during our three-year partnership (January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2027), we will donate $0.50 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®.

This applies to all retail sales and smaller wholesale orders at our locations in Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester. For our larger wholesale customers whose orders require semi-truck deliveries, we’ve created specialized giving opportunities, including options to contribute through our dedicated St. Jude fundraising link at www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch.

This applies to all mulch types in our inventory, including:

• Black Platinum
• Brown Platinum
• Brown (Black) Gold
• Cedar Mulch
• Champion Special
• Gardener’s Choice
• Ultra Black
• Ultra Brown
• Ultra Red
• Kid’s Carpet

Whether you’re purchasing a single yard for a small garden project or placing a bulk order for a large commercial job, every yard purchased at one of our four locations contributes to this important cause.

The Yard Sign Program: Show Your Support & Save

We’ve created a special discount program that allows you to save money while helping us spread awareness about the mission of St. Jude throughout our community.

Here’s how it works:

1. When you purchase mulch from any Champion Mulch location, request a “Champion Mulch and Landscape Supply, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®” yard sign.
2. Place this sign in your front yard where it’s visible to passersby.
3. Receive a $3.00 discount per cubic yard on your mulch purchase.

“The yard sign program serves two important purposes,” Matt explains. “First, it provides our customers with substantial savings—especially for larger projects. Second, it helps raise awareness about St. Jude throughout our community. When people see these signs popping up across Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester, it creates conversations about why supporting St. Jude matters.”

Add-On Donation Program: Every Dollar Counts

For customers who want to contribute beyond their mulch purchase, we’ve implemented an add-on donation program at all Champion Mulch locations and on our website.

During checkout, you’ll have the option to add a donation of $1, $3, or $5 to your purchase. One hundred percent of these additional donations will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^® to support their mission of finding cures and saving children.

“Even small donations add up quickly,” notes Matt. “If every customer added just $1 to their purchase, the impact would be tremendous.”

Coupon Enhancement Program

Many of our customers regularly use coupons from local publications like Clipp and Town Money Saver magazines. We’ve created a special enhancement to make these deals even better while supporting St. Jude.

Here’s how this works:

When you use any current Champion Mulch coupon from Clipp or Town Money Saver AND agree to place a St. Jude/Champion Mulch yard sign in your yard, you’ll receive an additional $3 off your total order (not per yard, but $3 off the entire purchase).

This enhancement is our way of saying thank you to our regular customers while encouraging participation in our St. Jude partnership.

What Your Support Means for St. Jude Families

Every dollar raised through this partnership helps ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food—allowing parents to focus solely on helping their child heal.

Here’s what your support can provide:

• $3 can help provide pediatric isolation masks to protect patients with compromised immune systems
• $10 can help provide a new toy for hospital play areas
• $30 can help provide one meal card for a St. Jude family
• $100 can help provide one red wagon for transportation
• $500 can help provide one hour of physical therapy

“When Maddy was receiving treatment at St. Jude, we experienced firsthand the comprehensive support they provide to families,” Matt recalls. “From covering travel expenses to ensuring Maddy received therapy services alongside her medical treatment—all without ever sending a bill—St. Jude allowed our family to focus entirely on Maddy’s recovery. That’s what this partnership is ultimately about: helping other families receive that same extraordinary care.”

How to Participate

There are multiple ways to support this partnership throughout our three-year commitment:

1. Purchase mulch from any Champion Mulch location or online at www.gotochampion.com
2. Display a yard sign in your front yard to receive the $3 per cubic yard discount
3. Add a donation of $1, $3, or $5 at checkout
4. Use our coupons from Clipp or Town Money Saver and enhance your savings by participating in the yard sign program
5. Donate directly to our dedicated St. Jude fundraising page at www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch
6. Spread the word by sharing information about this partnership with friends, family, and neighbors
7. Share on social media by posting a photo of your yard sign and tagging Champion Mulch and St. Jude (details below)
8. Follow our progress on social media and our website throughout the year

Beyond Fundraising: Growing Awareness

While raising funds for St. Jude is a primary goal of this partnership, we’re equally committed to raising awareness about childhood cancer and the critical work being done at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Throughout our three-year partnership, Champion Mulch will share stories, statistics, and information about St. Jude’s mission through our website, social media channels, and in-store materials.

Share Your Support on Social Media

We invite you to help spread awareness about St. Jude’s mission by sharing your support on social media:

1. Take a photo of your Champion Mulch/St. Jude yard sign in your yard
2. Post it on your social media accounts and tag us on:
   • Facebook: @ChampionMulchandLandscapeSupply
   • Instagram: @ChampionMulchOH
   • X (Twitter): @ChampionMulchOH
   • TikTok: @ChampionMulchOH
3. Tag St. Jude (@StJude) in your post
4. Use the hashtags #MulchThatMatters #ChampionMulchForStJudeKids

“Many people know the St. Jude name but aren’t familiar with the full scope of their work,” Matt explains. “They not only provide world-class treatment to children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases, they’re leading researchers who freely share their discoveries globally. When you support St. Jude, you’re helping children everywhere.”

Join Us in This Mission

What makes this partnership special is that it transforms everyday landscaping decisions into meaningful support for children dealing with childhood cancer. Every yard of mulch, every yard sign, every add-on donation contributes to a cause that’s saving lives and giving hope to families in their darkest hours.

“After seeing what St. Jude did for our family, for Maddy, I wanted to find a way to give back in a significant way,” Matt shares. “By connecting our business to their mission, we’re creating an opportunity for our entire community to participate in something truly important.”

We invite you to join us in this partnership. When you choose Champion Mulch in 2025, you’re not just enhancing your landscape—you’re helping ensure that families facing childhood cancer receive the extraordinary care that only St. Jude can provide.

Because at Champion Mulch, we believe the most beautiful landscapes grow from purpose and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the $0.50 donation apply to all types of mulch?
A: Yes, every yard of mulch purchased at one of our four locations, regardless of type or color, generates a $0.50 donation to St. Jude.

Q: How do I get a yard sign to participate in the discount program?
A: Yard signs are available at all Champion Mulch locations. Simply ask for one when you make your purchase, or request one when placing your delivery order.

Q: Can I still get the $3 per yard discount if I’m ordering mulch for delivery?
A: Absolutely! Just let us know you’ll display the yard sign, and we’ll bring one with your delivery and apply the discount to your order.

Q: Is this a new initiative for Champion Mulch?
A: While we’ve been supporting St. Jude informally since 2020 through our yard sign program, we formalized and expanded our partnership on January 1, 2025, with this comprehensive three-year commitment. The expanded program includes the $0.50 donation per yard of mulch, enhanced coupon offers, and the social media initiative.

Q: How does the donation program work for larger wholesale orders?
A: For our larger wholesale customers whose orders require semi-truck deliveries, we offer specialized giving opportunities, including options to contribute through our dedicated St. Jude fundraising link at www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch. These customers can speak with their sales representative about the various ways they can participate in our St. Jude partnership.

Q: Can I make a donation without purchasing mulch?
A: Yes! You can make a direct donation through our dedicated St. Jude fundraising page at www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch or at any of our locations.

Q: Is my add-on donation tax-deductible?
A: Yes, add-on donations are tax-deductible. Be sure to keep your receipt for your records.

Q: How long will the yard signs last outdoors?
A: The yard signs are made of durable materials designed to withstand outdoor conditions for the duration of the campaign.

Q: Can I participate in both the yard sign program and use a coupon?
A: Absolutely! We’ve specifically designed the program so these benefits can be combined.

Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply is the largest landscape supply company in Southwest Ohio, with locations in Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester. For over 12 years, we’ve provided high-quality mulch, topsoil, stone, pavers, and other landscaping materials to both professional landscapers and homeowners. Learn more at www.gotochampion.com.

The post Mulch that Matters appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

A Champion Mulch Family Story

When Matt Brun walked into the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® campus in Memphis for the first time, the contrast couldn’t have been more striking. Back home in Dayton, his days were filled with the earthy scent of mulch, the rumble of delivery trucks, and the steady rhythm of a growing landscape supply business. But here, under the bright Tennessee sun, the air was tinged with antiseptic, punctuated by the squeak of red wagons pulling children to their next appointments.

He wasn’t there as a businessman. He was there as an uncle.

His niece Maddy, barely 14 months old, had been diagnosed five months earlier with ependymoma—a type of brain cancer that no family is ever prepared to face. As he navigated the colorful, carefully designed hallways, Matt was struck by a conflicting swirl of emotions: the heaviness of seeing so many children in treatment, yet an undeniable sense of hope permeating every interaction.

“It’s a beautiful campus and we definitely felt we were in the right place,” recalls Maddy’s mother Julie. “It’s a mixed bag of emotions because you are surrounded by staff that are so kind and gracious, but you are also surrounded by a lot of sick children.”

That visit changed something fundamental in Matt. Beyond the concern for his niece, beyond the admiration for the medical staff, he found a purpose that would eventually bridge his personal experience with his professional life. Today, that purpose has grown into a formal partnership between Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® – a connection built not on business strategy, but on deeply personal gratitude.

This is the story of how one family’s journey through childhood cancer created ripples that would eventually touch an entire community, and how a local business found its heart in supporting a world where no child dies from cancer.

The Beginning of Maddy’s Journey

Before Cancer: Lucas, Ron, Maddy, and Julie

Before cancer entered their vocabulary, the Read family lived the ordinary rhythms of life that most of us take for granted. Julie and Ron juggled careers and parenting, with their kindergarten-aged son Lucas bringing the energy and chaos that five-year-olds specialize in. Baby Maddy, with her bright eyes and infectious giggles, had just begun to explore her world at nine months old. Weekends meant family gatherings, home projects, and the small moments that build a life together.

Then, without warning, the ground shifted beneath their feet.

“You never expect it to be your child,” Julie says, her voice still carrying traces of that initial disbelief. “One minute we’re planning her first birthday, and the next we’re sitting across from doctors using words like ‘tumor’ and ‘oncology.'”

Maddy was diagnosed at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. The standard treatment path was clear but daunting: surgery followed by proton radiation therapy. But there was a complication — NCH didn’t offer the specific radiation treatment Maddy needed.

“Typically we would go to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,” Julie explains, “but the radiation oncologist that knows the most about her type of brain cancer — ependymoma — is located at St. Jude.” That specialist was Dr. Merchant, known among medical professionals simply as “the ependymoma guy.”

It was a rare situation. While St. Jude typically accepts patients for specific clinical trials, there wasn’t one available for Maddy’s condition at that time. Yet Dr. Merchant reviewed her case and made an exception, accepting her for treatment outside the usual protocols.

“It was the best of both worlds,” Julie remembers. “We didn’t have to follow the guidelines of a clinical trial; we could just go there for the specific treatment she needed.”

The family found themselves facing a reality they’d never imagined: packing for an extended stay in Memphis, arranging for Lucas’s care back home, navigating leave from work, and preparing their baby girl for a journey that no child should have to make. Matt watched his sister’s family prepare for this upheaval with a mixture of helplessness and awe.

“When something like this happens to someone you love,” Matt says, “you realize how quickly priorities shift. Suddenly the daily concerns that seemed so important just… fade away.”

For the Reads, life had divided into clear segments: before diagnosis and after. Normal and new normal. Home and Memphis. And as they prepared to travel to Tennessee, they couldn’t know that they were about to become part of a community that understood exactly what they were going through — a community built specifically to carry families through their darkest days.

Arriving at St. Jude

The drive to Memphis stretched before Julie and Ron like an emotional marathon. Each mile marker brought them closer to treatment, but farther from home, from Lucas, from everything familiar. With Maddy secured in her car seat, they crossed state lines carrying the weight of uncertainty and the fragile flame of hope.

St. Jude rises from the Memphis landscape like an island of possibility. As they approached the campus for the first time, the modern buildings gleamed in the sunlight — a stark contrast to the darkness of their situation. The architectural warmth seemed intentional, Julie thought, designed to wrap around families when they needed embracing most.

“It’s a beautiful campus,” Julie recalls. “We definitely felt we were in the right place.”

But beauty and reassurance came intertwined with the reality of why they were there. As they entered the main building, the full picture of St. Jude revealed itself in vivid detail: children with bald heads from chemotherapy, tired eyes above brave smiles, parents whose expressions mirrored their own mix of determination and fear.

“It’s a mixed bag of emotions,” Julie explains, “because you are surrounded by staff that are so kind and gracious, but you are also surrounded by a lot of sick children.” She describes seeing children who carry the visible weight of their treatment journeys, noting how the hospital still manages to create a cheerful atmosphere despite these challenges.

One of the most striking images — one that would become familiar during their stay — was the parade of red wagons that moved through the hallways like a gentle current. “The kids are being pulled around campus from appointment to appointment in red wagons,” Julie remembers. These wagons, too small for the enormous burdens they carried, somehow became symbols of both the childhood being fought for and the journey being traveled.

Yet amid this sobering reality, St. Jude achieved something remarkable: an atmosphere that acknowledged the gravity of their mission while refusing to surrender to it.

“Even with a lot of illness around you, they still make it as cheerful of a place as possible,” Julie says.

The cheerfulness wasn’t superficial — it was purposeful. Bright colors adorned walls that had witnessed countless anxious parents. Artwork created by patients hung in corridors traveled by worried families. Staff members greeted them not with clinical detachment but with genuine warmth. Each element seemed designed to say: This is a serious place that does serious work, but we haven’t forgotten there are children here.

For the Reads, that first day at St. Jude marked their entry into a world unlike any they’d known — a world where medical excellence met compassionate care, where cutting-edge treatment coexisted with the understanding that healing involves more than medicine. It was a world they hadn’t chosen to enter, but one that would soon show them what extraordinary care truly means.

As they completed intake forms and met with the medical team that would oversee Maddy’s treatment, Julie and Ron began to understand why Dr. Merchant was considered the best in his field — and why St. Jude had earned its reputation as a beacon for families navigating the stormy seas of childhood cancer.

The Treatment Experience

Maddy’s treatment plan unfolded like a carefully choreographed dance — one with steps no parent ever wishes to learn. Each morning began before sunrise, as Julie prepared her drowsy toddler for another day of fighting an enemy invisible to the naked eye but all too real on brain scans.

“St. Jude was absolutely awesome,” Julie says, her voice warming with the memory. “Everyone that works there is so nice and helpful. The doctors and nurses are top of the line. They make you feel seen and heard.”

The medical team moved with precision that comes only from specialized expertise. Dr. Merchant and his colleagues became navigators charting a course through dangerous waters, their confidence providing an anchor when uncertainty threatened to pull the family under. Each step of Maddy’s treatment was explained with a balance of honesty and hope — the rare combination that allows parents to prepare for difficult days while still believing in better ones ahead.

Proton radiation therapy — the reason they had come to St. Jude — required daily sedation for the 14-month-old. Maddy would lie perfectly still as targeted radiation treated her brain with microscopic precision, sparing surrounding tissues while attacking cancer cells. The science behind it was miraculous; the implementation was grueling.

“Maddy had a very hard time adjusting to the sedation she received every day for treatment,” Julie recalls. “Her sleep was so bad while we were down there… for both of us. It was a struggle emotionally having to care for her alone when we were both so tired and stressed all the time.”

But the approach to care at St. Jude extended far beyond the radiation suite. The medical team recognized that healing a child means addressing every aspect of their development, especially when treatment threatens to derail it.

“Maddy also had speech, occupational and physical therapy while she was there,” Julie explains. These therapies ensured that while doctors fought for her life, specialists fought for her development, refusing to let cancer claim more childhood milestones than absolutely necessary.

For older patients, St. Jude even maintained a school on campus, allowing children to keep pace academically during treatment. “They set you up in housing while you are getting treatment,” Julie continues. “When you are in short-term housing you receive a daily stipend to eat in their cafeteria, and Dominos supplied a large pizza and a two-liter of soda every day if you wanted it.”

The practical support St. Jude offered eliminated barriers that might otherwise have seemed insurmountable. St. Jude covered travel expenses for two adults and Maddy, removing the financial burden of cross-country medical care. Every scan, every treatment, every therapy session came without a bill to the family — a policy that transformed the family’s experience, Julie emphasizes, still sounding slightly amazed by this reality.

The hospital campus pulsed with unexpected moments of joy that punctuated the medical routine. “Frequently there would be organizations that came in to throw parties for the kids or give away things to the families. There was a weekly farmers market,” Julie remembers. “They really tried to make this as positive of an experience as they could.”

The understanding at St. Jude extended to recognizing when families needed to reconnect with home. “There was a time period between initial testing and when treatment started, it was like a week in between, and they paid for us to go home during that time so we could be with our family. Then paid for us to come back. That was really nice.”

Through it all, what stood out most wasn’t just the medical excellence—though that certainly existed in abundance. It was the recognition that they were treating a child and supporting a family, not merely attacking a disease. While the radiation targeted Maddy’s cancer with scientific precision, the care enveloped the entire family with equal intention.

As Matt would observe during his visits, the St. Jude approach represented healthcare transformed by compassion—where medical protocols and human understanding worked in perfect harmony, where every staff member from surgeons to cafeteria workers seemed united by a single mission: to deliver hope, one child at a time.

Family Impact

While Maddy and Julie settled into the rhythm of treatment in Memphis, life continued its reluctant forward march back in Ohio. The family found itself stretched between two worlds—divided by geography but united in purpose. Ron shouldered the weight of maintaining work and home while caring for Lucas, whose kindergarten year now unfolded against the backdrop of his sister’s illness.

“My husband and son stayed back home while Maddy and I were down there,” Julie explains. The separation carved new hollows into an already difficult situation. “It was hard on my son being away from us for two months, and my husband just felt helpless since he was home.”

Lucas, at just five years old, couldn’t fully grasp why his mother and baby sister had disappeared to a faraway place called Memphis. His world had been upended without warning, and the concept of cancer remained beyond his understanding. He moved between the homes of grandparents, uncles, and aunts, while Ron balanced work responsibilities with maintaining some semblance of normalcy.

While Matt traveled to Memphis to provide support, his wife Kasie helped with support efforts back home, helping to care for Lucas when he stayed with them. Their son Ethan, who was close in age to Lucas, became an important companion for his cousin during this difficult time, providing a sense of normalcy through play and friendship when Lucas stayed at their home.

“Our family was very helpful, especially with Lucas,” Julie remembers with gratitude. “He would stay at my parents’ house, or my brother’s or my husband’s brother’s house. He would play with his cousins and have fun. That was the biggest help so we didn’t have to worry as much about him.”

The distance created a strange paradox for Julie—physically separated from Lucas while emotionally tethered to him through daily video calls that never quite bridged the gap. Every goodnight kiss blown through a phone screen carried the weight of missed bedtime stories and absent hugs.

In Memphis, Julie navigated a different kind of isolation. Despite being surrounded by other parents in similar situations, the night hours brought a particular loneliness as she cared for Maddy without her husband.

“It was a struggle emotionally having to care for her alone when we were both so tired and stressed all the time,” she recalls. “But we got through it. We were both homesick. But we got through it, one day at a time.”

That became their mantra: one day at a time. Some days brought small victories—a good blood count, a completed treatment without complications, a few hours of uninterrupted sleep. Other days delivered setbacks that tested their resolve. But through it all, they found strength in the community that rallied around them, both in Memphis and across the miles in Ohio.

Friends performed quiet acts of service that spoke volumes about true support. “Our friends paid for our house to be cleaned twice a month for four months,” Julie shares, still touched by the gesture. “That was amazing. Some of our friends did our yardwork. Basically just doing the necessary stuff for us so we could focus our time on the important things.”

The division of their family between two states meant they relied heavily on their extended support network. “My friends and family also started a GoFundMe, which was nice, and a lot of others made food for us or bought us gift cards for restaurants. All of it was so appreciated.”

What Julie came to understand during this time—what Matt observed as he helped support his sister’s family—was that coping with childhood cancer is never just about medical treatment. It’s about managing the ripple effects that touch every aspect of family life: the emotional toll on siblings, the strain on marriages, the practical challenges of maintaining households and careers while fighting for a child’s life.

The most valuable support, Julie discovered, often came in the form of anticipating needs rather than asking about them. “I think the biggest suggestion I have for friends and family is instead of asking what they can do or what we need, just do it,” she reflects. “I know when people ask me how they can help, I was not great at telling them, or I couldn’t even think of anything they could do.”

During those two months in Memphis, the Read family learned to bend without breaking. They discovered resilience they didn’t know they possessed and accepted help they never thought they’d need. Though physically divided, they remained united in their determination to bring Maddy home healthy—to eventually restore their family circle to wholeness, even if that wholeness would forever bear the marks of their journey through cancer.

The Ronald McDonald House Experience

After the initial phase of treatment, Julie and Maddy transitioned from short-term housing to their new temporary home—the Ronald McDonald House. What began as a simple accommodation solution quickly became a sanctuary that would frame their Memphis experience for the next two months.

“Maddy and I stayed at RMH for about two months,” Julie remembers. “It was a big part of our experience. It was our home.”

Stepping through the doors of the Ronald McDonald House for the first time, Julie was struck by how the space managed to feel both communal and personal. The building hummed with the quiet energy of families sharing a journey no one had chosen, yet finding surprising moments of normalcy within extraordinary circumstances.

“They provided us with a nice room,” Julie explains. But the physical accommodations were just the beginning of what made the Ronald McDonald House special. The carefully designed spaces anticipated the needs of families whose lives had been upended by serious illness.

“They also had a big kitchen area for the families,” she continues. “Each of us got a big section of a refrigerator, and they had multiple stoves, ovens, and microwaves that families could use.” These practical arrangements addressed a fundamental truth about extended hospital stays: while medical treatment occupies the daylight hours, families still need to live their lives in the spaces between appointments.

“That way we could make food for our families that we know they would like,” Julie reflects. “They also make a continental breakfast every weekday.”

Beyond meeting basic needs, the Ronald McDonald House created a structure that somehow felt like home while accommodating the reality that its residents were living through one of life’s most challenging chapters. Like a lighthouse offering shelter from the storm, it provided both safety and community.

“They had a pantry that had a ton of snacks and easy meals that we could take and use, free,” Julie recalls. “Businesses and churches would sponsor dinners for everyone, and that usually occurred a few times a week.”

The practical provisions extended beyond food. “We also had washers and dryers we could use,” she says. “Luckily, I had my car, but they also had a shuttle to St. Jude, grocery stores, shopping centers.”

For Maddy, and especially for Lucas during his visits, the Ronald McDonald House offered something equally important—spaces designed for childhood. “There were multiple playrooms for the kids, craft rooms, game rooms,” Julie remembers. “Lucas really liked this when he visited. To this day, he still tells me he wants to go back.”

These play areas served as more than mere distractions; they became sacred spaces where children could momentarily escape the shadow of illness and simply be kids. The sound of laughter bouncing off colorful walls provided a different kind of medicine—one that treated spirits while doctors treated bodies.

The thoughtfulness extended outdoors as well. “They also had a nice playground and lots of bikes for the kids to ride,” Julie says.

Even parents received moments of respite. “They would have people come in to give parents a quick massage and have music and other activities for the kids,” Julie recalls. These small kindnesses acknowledged the physical and emotional toll that caregiving takes during a medical crisis.

What Julie and Maddy found at the Ronald McDonald House was more than accommodation—it was a community built around shared understanding. No explanations were needed for middle-of-the-night departures to the emergency room, for tears shed in hallways, or for celebrating seemingly small medical victories that represented enormous personal triumphs.

“They tried to make it as accommodating as they could,” Julie reflects. “Many families stayed at RMH for up to six months.”

During their two-month residence, the Ronald McDonald House became the backdrop for countless memories—some difficult, others unexpectedly sweet. It was where Maddy played after a particularly good day. Where Julie found moments of connection with other parents who truly understood. Where Lucas, during his visits, discovered that even in this strange chapter of their family story, joy could still be found.

What began as simply a place to stay while Maddy received treatment transformed into an integral part of their healing journey—a place that understood that recovery happens not just in hospital rooms, but in the quiet moments between treatments, in kitchens and playrooms, in community and in rest.

The Journey Continues

Today, the busy halls of Champion Mulch’s Dayton office seem worlds away from the medical corridors of St. Jude. Yet for Matt, the connection remains as vivid as the day he first walked those Memphis hallways. The journey that began with his niece’s diagnosis has evolved, but never truly ended.

The impact of Maddy’s journey extended to Matt’s immediate family as well. His wife Kasie and son Ethan, though not physically present at St. Jude, followed every update with anxious hearts and provided steadfast support from home and continue that support today.

Maddy, now a kindergartner with a bright smile and boundless energy, bears little outward resemblance to the toddler who once rode in those red wagons. “Maddy is doing great!” Julie shares, her voice lifting. “She was first diagnosed at 9 months old, then it came back when she was 3.5 years old. She has been cancer free since January 2022.”

Like a sapling that’s weathered severe storms, Maddy has grown with remarkable resilience. “She is thriving in kindergarten and is making friends, trying to live a normal life,” Julie continues.

The road hasn’t always been straight. When Maddy’s cancer returned in 2022, the family faced another crossroads. “They recommended a treatment plan that we did not want to follow at that time,” Julie explains. “It was just too aggressive, and we didn’t want to risk it at her age.” That decision led them to OSU for Maddy’s most recent radiation treatment, where they continue annual follow-ups.

Though their active treatment at St. Jude has concluded, the institution remains a lighthouse on their horizon—always visible, ready to guide them should storms return. “Although we no longer have to follow up with St. Jude, we are always considered a patient, so if we would need them in the future, we can go back,” Julie explains.

For Lucas, now older and more aware, the aftermath of his sister’s illness presents its own challenges. “Now he gets upset because although Maddy has made a lot of strides, she is still behind in areas and acts younger than her age,” Julie shares. “It bothers him that she is a little different than kids her age.”

This reality—the after-effects that linger long after treatment ends—is rarely discussed in cancer narratives that prefer neat endings. The Read family lives in the complex space where celebration of Maddy’s cancer-free status coexists with the ongoing adjustments to developmental differences and delayed milestones.

Yet through it all, they maintain their practice of taking life one day at a time. Each school morning with Maddy grabbing her backpack represents a victory. Each developmental milestone reached, even if later than expected, is cause for celebration. Each clean scan marks another step further from danger.

For Matt, watching his niece transform from patient to kindergartner has been nothing short of miraculous. His visits to Memphis, seeing the comprehensive care system that supported not just Maddy’s medical needs but the whole family’s wellbeing, left an indelible impression. The seed of an idea began to take root—a way to translate gratitude into action, to connect his business with a cause that had become deeply personal.

The experience changed his perspective on what matters most—both personally and professionally. The landscape supply business that once simply provided materials for gardens and outdoor spaces now represented something more: an opportunity to contribute to a different kind of growth—the research and treatment that helps children like Maddy have their own futures.

As Matt moved through his days at Champion Mulch, speaking with customers about their landscape projects, the contrast between everyday concerns and life-or-death struggles remained stark. Yet he also recognized that businesses have unique power to create positive change—to build bridges between everyday commerce and extraordinary causes.

The journey that began with a devastating diagnosis has transformed into something unexpected: a mission to connect Champion Mulch’s success with the life-saving work of St. Jude. For the Read family, for Matt and his family, and now for Champion Mulch, the story continues—branching in new directions while remaining rooted in profound gratitude for the care that saved Maddy’s life.

Why This Partnership Matters to Champion Mulch

Some business partnerships are born of strategic opportunity. Others emerge from mission alignment or market advantages. But the collaboration between Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® springs from somewhere deeper—a place of profound personal gratitude and purpose.

“This isn’t just another corporate sponsorship for us,” Matt explains, his usual business demeanor softening when he speaks about St. Jude. “When you’ve walked those halls, when you’ve seen firsthand what they do for families like ours, it changes you. It changes how you think about your responsibility as a business owner.”

The decision to create this partnership received wholehearted support from Matt’s immediate family. “When I shared this vision with Kasie and Ethan, there wasn’t a moment’s hesitation,” Matt explains. “Though they never walked the halls in Memphis personally, they’ve been part of this journey from day one. Ethan has witnessed his cousin’s incredible resilience growing up, while Kasie has been a steadfast pillar of support for our extended family throughout. This cause resonates just as deeply with them as it does with me.”

Partnering with St. Jude represents planting seeds of hope that will grow into life-saving research. Each yard of mulch sold becomes more than landscape material—it becomes part of a larger mission to ensure other families receive the same exceptional care that Maddy did.

What began as a grassroots initiative in 2020—when Champion first introduced a yard sign discount program with donations to St. Jude—has now evolved into a formal partnership. Since that first year, Champion has steadily grown its commitment to the cause, with each season bringing increased support. Beginning January 1, 2025, this relationship enters a new chapter as Champion Mulch officially commits to donate $0.50 from every yard of mulch purchased at any retail location or online. It’s a straightforward mechanism, but one with profound implications for both organizations. The partnership continues to include the popular discount program that started it all: customers who place a “Champion Mulch and Landscape Supply, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®” yard sign on their front lawn will receive $3.00 off each yard of mulch purchased.

There are multiple ways customers can support this life-saving partnership:

• Yard Sign Discount Program: Place a St. Jude/Champion Mulch sign in your yard and receive $3 off per cubic yard of any type of mulch you purchase
• Add-On Donations: Add a donation of $1, $3, or $5 to any purchase at checkout (100% of donations will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® to support its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®)
• Direct Donations: Visit https://www.stjude.org/ChampionMulch to make a direct donation to St. Jude
• Coupon Enhancement: Customers using our coupons from Clipp and Town Money Saver magazines who also agree to place a sign in their yards can receive an additional $3 off their total order

“We’re in the business of helping people improve their outdoor spaces,” Matt reflects. “But this partnership lets us be part of improving lives in a much more fundamental way.”

The alignment feels natural. Both Champion Mulch and St. Jude prioritize quality and expertise in their respective fields. Both organizations value community and service. And both understand that their work impacts families during significant moments in their lives—whether creating beautiful outdoor spaces or providing life-saving medical care.

For Champion Mulch’s team members, many of whom have followed Maddy’s journey through Matt’s updates over the years, the partnership brings new meaning to their daily work. Loading mulch, processing orders, and delivering materials now connect directly to supporting research that helps children fight cancer.

“When I shared this partnership with our team, the response was immediate and enthusiastic,” Matt says. “Everyone wanted to know how they could help, how they could be involved. That’s when I knew we were making the right decision.”

The partnership also resonates with Champion Mulch’s customer base of landscapers and homeowners across Southwest Ohio. Many are families with children of their own. Others have been touched by cancer in some way. All understand the value of supporting an institution that refuses to send families a bill during the most challenging time of their lives.

As the region’s premier landscape supply company, with locations in Dayton, Moraine, Englewood, and West Chester, Champion Mulch recognizes the platform they have to raise awareness as well as funds. This partnership isn’t just about financial support—it’s about spreading the message of St. Jude throughout their community.

“We have an opportunity here,” Matt explains, “to turn everyday landscaping projects into something meaningful. Every bag of mulch, every bulk delivery becomes part of something bigger than beautifying a yard—it becomes part of finding cures and saving children.”

For Matt, the journey from concerned uncle to corporate partner with St. Jude represents a full-circle moment—a way to transform personal gratitude into community impact. What began in the anxious corridors of a Memphis hospital will now flourish in the gardens and landscapes of Southwest Ohio, connecting customers to a cause that changes lives one child at a time.

Conclusion

The red wagon that once carried a toddler named Maddy through the halls of St. Jude has completed its journey. Today, she walks confidently into her kindergarten classroom, cancer-free since June 2022. But the impact of those days in Memphis continues to ripple outward, touching lives far beyond the Read family.

As we launch this partnership between Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, we’re reminded that the most meaningful connections often grow from personal experience. What began as one family’s medical journey has grown into an opportunity for our entire community to participate in the life-saving mission of St. Jude.

“When something touches your family this personally,” Matt reflects, “you don’t just want to say thank you—you want to do something that matters. This partnership is our way of saying thank you in a way that helps other families find the same hope and healing that we did.”

Beginning in January 2025, every yard of mulch you purchase from Champion will help support St. Jude and their commitment to Finding cures. Saving children.®. It’s a simple action with extraordinary potential—turning everyday landscaping decisions into contributions toward childhood cancer research.

We invite you to join us in this mission. When you choose Champion Mulch, you’re not just improving your landscape—you’re helping ensure that families facing childhood cancer never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

In our next article, we’ll share more specific details about how this partnership works and the various ways you can participate. For now, we simply want to share the heart behind this initiative—a story of family, hope, healing, and the difference that exceptional care can make in a child’s life.

Because at Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply, we believe that the most beautiful landscapes are built on foundations of purpose and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How exactly does the Champion Mulch and St. Jude partnership work?
A: Beginning January 1, 2025, Champion Mulch will donate $0.50 from every yard of retail mulch purchased at any of our locations or online. We’ve also created special programs like our yard sign discount that gives customers $3 off per cubic yard when they display our partnership sign.

Q: How do I get a yard sign to participate in the discount program?
A: Yard signs are available at all Champion Mulch locations. Simply ask for one when you make your purchase, or request one when placing your delivery order.

Q: Do business/commercial accounts also support this partnership?
A: Yes, both residential and commercial accounts contribute to our St. Jude partnership! We donate $0.50 for every yard of mulch purchased from any of our four retail locations, regardless of whether it’s bought by homeowners or landscape professionals, with the exception of our larger wholesale customers who require semi-truck deliveries due to their high-volume orders. These larger partners will have other opportunities to support the cause.

Q: Why did Champion Mulch choose St. Jude specifically?
A: Our owner Matt’s personal experience with his niece Maddy’s treatment at St. Jude showed us firsthand the extraordinary care they provide. We believe in their mission to ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — so they can focus on helping their child live, and their commitment to sharing research globally.

Q: What is the fundraising goal for this partnership?
A: Our fundraising goal is $80,000 this year. Although that goal seems daunting, we know with your generous help we can meet it.

From January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, Company will donate to St. Jude $0.50 of the purchase price for every yard of mulch purchased at any Company retail store

100% of donations will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® to support its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®”

The post Why St. Jude Matters to Us appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

A. Final Mowing

How you cut your grass these last few weeks really matters.

 

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Jesse Weidner, owner of Weidner Landscape Solutions, shares why: “Gradually reduce mowing height to about 2 inches by the end of the growing season. This helps prevent winter lawn diseases like snow mold.”

 

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Your November mowing guide:

1. Keep mowing until the grass stops growing
2. Lower your blade gradually to 2-2.5 inches
3. Mow when the grass is dry
4. Pick up any leftover leaves as you go

    

B. Last-Chance Fertilizing

Now’s the time for that final feed before winter.

 

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Sabrina Dunham of Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC notes, “Fertilization reduces weeds, helps the yard in resisting diseases and pests, improves lawn growth, and protects the soil.”

 

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What to do:

1. Apply “winterizer” fertilizer before the ground freezes
2. Choose a product high in nitrogen and potassium
3. Spread evenly on a calm, dry day
4. Water lightly if no rain is expected

C. Clean and Protect

Getting your yard clean before winter hits is crucial.

 

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Ryan Dunham of Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC emphasizes, “Removal of leaves, weeds, twigs, litter, or other debris will help to minimize any diseases that may occur in the Winter.”

 

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Do these jobs now:

1. Clean up leftover leaves – they can smother grass under snow
2. Remove sticks and debris
3. Clean out your gutters one last time
4. Store or cover lawn furniture

 

D. Last-Minute Seeding Options

If you haven’t overseeded yet, you’re cutting it close, but you still have options. While early fall is best, you can try dormant seeding. This means putting down grass seed just before the ground freezes. The seed will wait in the soil until spring warmth triggers growth.

Tips for late seeding:

1. Choose hardy grass types that grow well in Southwest Ohio
2. Make sure seed touches the soil
3. Keep the area clear of leaves
4. Be patient – you won’t see results until spring

•  

Need supplies for these final lawn care tasks? Stop by any of our four Champion locations. We stock winter fertilizer, grass seed, and all the tools you’ll need to get your lawn ready for winter.

II. Getting Garden Beds Through Winter

Your garden beds need special attention now to protect plants through the cold months ahead. A little work in November means healthier plants come spring.

 

A. Quick Cleanup and Cutbacks

 

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Jesse Weidner from Weidner Landscape Solutions has some timely advice: “Deadhead flowers and trim back perennials after they die back to avoid disease and promote new growth in spring.”

 

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What needs cutting now:

• Remove dead annual plants
• Cut back perennials that have turned brown
• Leave ornamental grasses standing – they add winter interest
• Keep seed heads on coneflowers and black-eyed susans for the birds

 

B. Smart Mulching

 

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Nathan Robinson, our Englewood Location Manager, knows mulch matters more than ever right now: “Fall is a great time to mulch. Mulch insulates plant roots, which will help slow the freezing and thawing process in winter. Slowing this process will help protect your plants from heaving, which can break the roots.”

 

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Your mulching checklist:

1. Add 2-3 inches of fresh mulch around plants
2. Keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks

•  

Choose from our quality options:

• Premium bark mulch for lasting protection

1. Leaf mulch for natural nutrition
2. Hardwood mulch for durability

Winter Protection

Some plants need extra help handling Ohio winters.
Take these steps now:

1. Wrap sensitive shrubs in burlap
2. Build simple protection for roses
3. Add extra mulch around newer plants
4. Consider temporary wind breaks for exposed areas

III. Protecting Trees and Shrubs Now

Your trees and shrubs are big investments in your landscape. These November tasks will help protect them through the harsh winter months ahead.

 

A. Last-Minute Check-Up

Take a good look at your woody plants now, while you can still spot problems.

 

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Sabrina Dunham points out, “Many plants shed their leaves and begin to enter a state of dormancy during the Winter months.”

 

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This makes it the perfect time to:

1. Look for broken or damaged branches
2. Check for signs of disease
3. Spot crossed branches that need removal
4. Mark any spring pruning jobs while you can see the structure

B. Smart Pruning Choices

Not everything should be pruned now.

 

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Ryan Dunham of Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC explains, “This dormancy period creates optimal conditions with many benefits for pruning and other tree care services.”

 

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What to prune in November:

1. Dead or damaged branches
2. Overgrown summer-flowering shrubs
3. Trees with dead wood

•  

What to leave until spring:

1. Spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs and azaleas
2. Maple trees (they’ll drip sap if pruned now)
3. Healthy growth that doesn’t pose a risk

 

C. Winter Protection Steps

Now’s the time to protect your trees and shrubs from winter damage:

Young Trees

1. Wrap trunks to prevent sun scald
2. Stake if needed for wind protection
3. Add mulch around (but not touching) the trunk

•  

Shrubs

1. Create burlap screens for wind protection
2. Add extra mulch around roots
3. Protect evergreens from winter burn

 

D. Winter Water Needs

Don’t forget about watering until the ground freezes:

1. Deep water newly planted trees and shrubs
2. Focus on evergreens – they need extra water now
3. Water on warmer days when the ground isn’t frozen

 

IV. Final Landscape Tasks for November

Let’s tackle those last crucial jobs that protect your whole landscape through winter. Getting these done now saves headaches when the cold hits.

 

A. Check Your Drainage

Water problems in winter can seriously damage your landscape. Jesse Weidner advises, “Check drains: Ensure that drainage areas and downspouts are clear to prevent water buildup and soil erosion during rain or snow.”

Do these checks now:

• Clean out gutters one final time

1. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the house
2. Clear any drainage ditches
3. Check that water flows away from plant beds

 

B. Water Features and Irrigation

Don’t let winter destroy your water features.

Take care of them now:
Fountains

1. Drain completely
2. Store pump indoors
3. Cover or bring in decorative features

•  

Ponds

1. Remove fallen leaves
2. Install a de-icer if you have fish
3. Keep pump running or store properly

•  

Irrigation Systems

1. Schedule a system blowout
2. Turn off and drain outdoor faucets
3. Store hoses indoors

 

C. Hardscape Protection

A little work now protects your hardscape investments:

1. Clean and seal patios if needed
2. Store or cover outdoor furniture
3. Protect delicate decorative items
4. Check for loose pavers or stones
5. Clear leaves from deck spaces

 

D. Tools and Equipment

Don’t forget about your garden tools:

1. Clean everything before storage
2. Drain gas from power equipment
3. Sharpen and oil tools
4. Store everything in a dry place

•  

Want help with supplies or have questions? Stop by any Champion location. We’ve got everything you need for these final winter prep tasks, plus expert advice to make sure you get them done right.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Winter Prep in Southwest Ohio

Get answers to the most common November landscaping questions from our local experts.

Q: Is it too late to put down winter fertilizer?

A: No – you can still fertilize until the ground freezes. Choose a “winterizer“ fertilizer high in nitrogen and potassium. It helps build strong roots for spring. Stop by any of our four locations for our premium winterizing fertilizer from The Andersons.

 

Q: What’s the best way to protect my garden beds right now?

A: Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants but keep it away from stems and trunks. This insulates roots and prevents winter heaving. For extra-sensitive plants, add burlap barriers for wind protection. Our premium mulch options provide excellent winter protection – visit us to find the right match for your beds.

 

Q: Should I keep watering my lawn and plants?

A: Yes, keep watering until the ground freezes, especially:

• Newly planted trees and shrubs
• Evergreens
• Areas you’ve recently seeded Water deeply once a week if we don’t get rain, focusing on root zones.

 

Q: Can I still plant anything this late?

A: While early fall is best, you can still:

1. Plant spring-blooming bulbs until the ground freezes
2. Try dormant seeding of grass
3. Plant container-grown trees and shrubs if you mulch well Just make sure to water thoroughly until the ground freezes.

 

Q: What do I do with all these leaves now?

A: Don’t let leaves sit on your lawn over winter. You can:

1. Mulch them into the lawn with your mower
2. Add them to garden beds as mulch
3. Compost them (except black walnut leaves)
4. Bring them to Champion for recycling

 

Q: How do I know if I’ve done enough to protect my landscape for winter?

A: Check these key points:

1. Clean, debris-free lawn
2. Fresh mulch around plants
3. Proper drainage away from plants and structures
4. Protected sensitive plants
5. Stored or covered equipment and furniture

 

Remember, our team at Champion is here to help with all your winter prep needs. Stop by any of our locations for supplies and expert advice.

V. Get Ready for Winter With Champion

As November’s chill settles over Southwest Ohio, taking these final steps to protect your landscape makes all the difference. Your work now lays the groundwork for a beautiful yard next spring.

 

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Ryan Dunham from Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC reminds us why this matters: “Fall cleanup is a great way to help accomplish a healthy and beautiful property all year.”

 

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Think of these November tasks as an investment in your landscape’s future. Need help getting ready for winter? Stop by any of our four Champion locations.

Our team knows Southwest Ohio landscapes, and we’re here to help you:

1. Choose the right winter fertilizer
2. Find the perfect mulch for winter protection
3. Get expert advice on plant protection
4. Find the tools you need for last-minute tasks

Remember, every bit of work you do now helps your landscape bounce back stronger in spring.

Whether you’re:

• Adding that final layer of mulch
• Putting down winter fertilizer
• Protecting sensitive plants
• Cleaning up the last leaves

Each task matters, and we’re here to help you get it done right.

Don’t let winter catch you unprepared. Visit Champion Mulch & Landscaping Supply today. We’ve got everything you need to get your yard ready for whatever winter brings.

Here’s to protecting your landscape now and enjoying a beautiful yard come spring!

The post Your November Landscape Guide to Winter Prep in Southwest Ohio appeared first on Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply.

II. Garden Bed Rejuvenation

As the growing season winds down, it’s crucial to prepare your garden beds for the colder months ahead. Proper fall maintenance sets the stage for a vibrant spring garden. Let’s explore the essential tasks for rejuvenating your garden beds in Southwest Ohio.

• • • 
      
      A. Flower Care

1. Deadheading Techniques Jesse Weidner from Weidner Landscape Solutions recommends, “Deadhead flowers to encourage a tidy appearance and promote healthier growth next season.” This practice involves removing spent blooms, which not only improves the garden’s appearance but also prevents plants from expending energy on seed production.
2. Cutting Back Perennials Weidner further advises, “Trim back perennials after they die back to avoid disease and promote new growth in spring.” However, it’s important to note that not all perennials should be cut back in fall. Some, like ornamental grasses and plants with interesting seed heads, can provide winter interest and food for birds.

• • 
    
    B. Bed Maintenance

1. Clearing Debris and Leaves Ryan Dunham of Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC emphasizes the importance of fall cleanup: “Removal of leaves, weeds, twigs, litter, or other debris will help to minimize any diseases that may occur in the Winter.” He adds, “Composted leaves in flower beds can be beneficial but too many may cause fungal diseases.”
2. Soil Amendment and Preparation for Spring Fall is an ideal time to improve your soil. Add compost, manure, or other organic matter to your beds. This allows these amendments to break down over winter, enriching your soil for spring planting.

• • 
    
    C. Mulching

Nathan Robinson, General Manager of  Champion Mulch & Landscape Supply’s Englewood Location, provides expert insight on fall mulching: “Fall is a great time to mulch. Mulch insulates plant roots, which will help slow the freezing and thawing process in winter. Slowing this process will help protect your plants from heaving, which can break the roots.”

1. 1. 1. Benefits of Fall Mulch Application

• Insulates soil and regulates temperature fluctuations
• Conserves soil moisture
• Suppresses weed growth
• Improves soil structure as it decomposes

1. 1. 1. Choosing the Right Mulch

Select a mulch appropriate for your garden’s needs. Options include:

• Bark mulch: Long-lasting and attractive
• Leaf Mulch: Excellent for improving soil structure
• Straw: Good for vegetable gardens but may introduce weed seeds
• Compost: Nutrient-rich option that improves soil health

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants, keeping it away from stems to prevent rot. Protect your plants and insulate your soil with the right mulch. Browse our mulch selection today and ensure your garden thrives through winter!

• • 
    
    D. Winter Protection Strategies for Sensitive Plants

Some plants in Southwest Ohio may need extra protection from harsh winter conditions. Jesse Weidner suggests, “Use burlap or mulch to protect tender plants from harsh winter winds and freezing temperatures.” Consider these methods:

• • 1. Wrapping plants in burlap
    2. Creating temporary structures like cold frames or hoop houses
    3. Applying an extra layer of mulch around the base of plants, but be sure to leave room at the stem or stalk of the plant

By following these expert-recommended practices, you’ll ensure your garden beds are well-prepared for winter and primed for a beautiful spring display. Remember, fall is also an excellent time to plan and even plant for next year’s garden. For quality mulch and expert advice on garden bed preparation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Champion Mulch & Landscaping Supply.

III. Tree and Shrub Management

Proper care of trees and shrubs in autumn is crucial for their health and appearance year-round. This section will cover essential fall practices for managing the woody plants in your Southwest Ohio landscape.

• • 
    A. Assessing Plant Health Before Dormancy

Before winter sets in, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your trees and shrubs. Sabrina Dunham advises, “Evaluate trees and shrubs for dormancy. Many plants shed their leaves and begin to enter a state of dormancy during the Winter months.” (“Many plants shed their leaves and begin to enter a state of … – TikTok”)

Key assessment points:

• • 1. Look for signs of disease or pest infestation
    2. Check for dead, damaged, or crossing branches
    3. Observe overall structure and form
    4. Note any trees or shrubs that performed poorly during the growing season

This assessment will guide your fall maintenance activities and help you plan for any necessary treatments or replacements in the spring.

• • 
    B. Pruning Guidelines

Pruning is a critical autumn task, but timing and technique are essential. Ryan Dunham of Dunham’s Lawn Care, LLC notes, “This dormancy period creates optimal conditions with many benefits for pruning and other tree care services.”

• • 1. Timing Considerations for Different Species
    • Prune summer-flowering shrubs in early fall
    • Wait to prune spring-flowering shrubs until after they bloom next year
    • For most deciduous trees, prune after leaves have fallen and the tree is dormant

Proper Pruning Techniques

Jesse Weidner recommends, “Prune trees and shrubs to remove any dead or damaged branches to prevent winter breakage and promote healthier growth.” When pruning:

• • • Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle
    • Remove no more than 25% of live branches in a single season
    • Cut back to healthy, outward-facing buds or branches

    
    C. Winter Protection Strategies

Some trees and shrubs, especially young or newly planted ones, may need extra protection from harsh winter conditions.

• • 1. Wrapping

Use burlap or tree wrap to protect thin-barked young trees from winter sun scald and frost cracks.

• • 2. Mulching

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.

• • 3. Watering

Provide supplemental water until the ground freezes, especially for evergreens and newly planted trees and shrubs.

• • 4. Protecting from Wildlife

Install tree guards or fencing to protect young trees from deer, rabbits, and other wildlife that may cause damage in winter when food is scarce.

• • 
    D. Fall Planting – Trees & Shrubs

Autumn can be an excellent time for planting new trees and shrubs in Southwest Ohio. Sabrina Dunham points out, “Fall is an excellent time for installing trees and bushes. The cooler weather allows plants to establish their root systems quickly and often requires less frequent watering and overall maintenance by the property owner.”

When fall planting:

• • 1. Choose species well-suited to your specific site conditions
    • Deciduous trees like maples, oaks, and dogwoods
    • Evergreens such as pines and spruces
    • Many varieties of shrubs, including hydrangeas and viburnums
    1. Plant at least six weeks before the ground freezes to allow for root establishment
    2. Water thoroughly and consistently until the ground freezes
    3. Apply a layer of mulch which will help to regulate soil temperature and moisture
    5. Benefits of Fall Installation
    • Cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock
    • Increased rainfall reduces the need for manual watering
    • Plants can focus energy on root growth before winter dormancy

By following these expert guidelines, you’ll ensure your trees and shrubs are well-prepared to withstand winter and thrive in the coming growing season. For advice on selecting appropriate trees and shrubs for fall planting, or for quality mulch to protect your woody plants, don’t hesitate to contact us at Champion Mulch & Landscaping Supplies.

 

• • IV. Landscape Preparation and Planning

Fall is an ideal time to assess your landscape, prepare for the coming winter, and plan for next year’s improvements. This section will guide you through essential autumn tasks to ensure your Southwest Ohio landscape is ready for the changing seasons.

• • 
    A. Installing Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Jesse Weidner from Weidner Landscape Solutions emphasizes the importance of fall weed control: “Weeds take hold over winter and present themselves in the spring. Install pre-emergent in the fall to help mitigate them in the spring.”

Key points for pre-emergent application:

• • 1. Timing: Apply in early fall, typically September in Southwest Ohio
    2. Coverage: Ensure even distribution across lawn and garden beds
    3. Watering: Water in the pre-emergent thoroughly after application
    4. Selection: Choose a product suitable for your specific weed issues and landscape type
  • 
    B. Planning for Spring Improvements

Use the fall season to evaluate your landscape’s performance and plan for next year. Jesse Weidner advises, “Plan for spring: Make notes on what worked well and what didn’t in your landscape this year to improve your garden for next season.”

Consider the following:

• • 1. Areas that need redesign or renovation
    2. New features you’d like to add (e.g., water features, outdoor living spaces)
    3. Plants that thrived or struggled in your landscape
    4. Maintenance issues you encountered during the growing season
  • 
    C. Drainage and Water Feature Preparation

Proper drainage is crucial for landscape health, especially heading into winter. Jesse Weidner recommends, “Check drains: Ensure that drainage areas and downspouts are clear to prevent water buildup and soil erosion during rain or snow.”

• • 1. Checking and Clearing Drains and Downspouts
    • Remove debris from gutters and downspouts
    • Make sure you have proper grading around the house to direct water away from the foundation
    • Clear any blocked drainage ditches or French drains
    2. Preparing Fountains and Ponds for Winter

Weidner also advises, “Protect water features: Prepare fountains and ponds for winter by removing pumps and cleaning out debris.”

Additional steps include:

• • Draining and cleaning smaller water features
  • Installing de-icers in ponds with fish
  • Covering or storing delicate fountain components

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