Firefighter Jim Barclay has won a special volunteer appreciation award for his work with Ronald McDonald House Hamilton as the Meals that Heal dinner assistant.

Barclay works in the new culinary kitchen at Ronald McDonald House with chef Shawn Rocchi to prepare, cook and serve meals to families staying at the House.

Barclay also assists staff and other volunteers in meals-related events and special occasions for RMHH.

He a local firefighter who loves to cook, both at home and at the fire station.

While he has a full-time job and a very busy family life, Barclay finds time throughout the week to give back.

Since joining Ronald McDonald House Hamilton on July 3, 2012, he has worked 210 volunteer hours, an unprecedented number of hours in seven months for any volunteer within this time frame – let alone someone with a demanding career and engaged family life.

“Jim demonstrates a selfless commitment to RMHH and is genuinely interested in contributing his time and efforts to help us collectively fulfill our mission,” said Chantell Tunney, executive director at RMHH.

“He is a representation of what true community service means and we are a better House for having the privilege to learn and work alongside him.”

The award comes from the national charity, Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada, as part of a volunteer appreciation pilot program. Through the generosity of a Ronald McDonald House supporter, Barclay has won a ski trip for two to Mont Tremblant with accommodations at the Fairmont Chateau Tremblant.