FAQ Ronald McDonald House
Are all Ronald McDonald Houses connected?
Ronald McDonald Houses are all licensees of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), an Illinois non-profit corporation. Each Ronald McDonald House is a separate, non-profit 501c3 corporation, with its own board of directors.
How did Ronald McDonald Houses get started?
The first Ronald McDonald House in the U.S. started in 1974 when, former Philadelphia Eagles football player, Fred Hill's daughter was being treated for leukemia. While at the hospital, Hill noticed many families from outside Philadelphia were sleeping in the hospital because they could not afford lodging. Working with McDonald's owners, he created the first Ronald McDonald House to provide affordable accommodations for the families of critically ill children. The Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado opened in 1987. Today, there are more than 270 Ronald McDonald Houses worldwide.
How is the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado funded?
Generous supporters like you help to fund the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado. The majority of our contributions come from individuals, organizations and businesses within our community.
Does McDonald's fund Ronald McDonald Houses?
Ronald McDonald Houses are neither owned or fully funded by McDonald's. Many times owner/operators will volunteer as members of our Board of Directors. McDonald's customers show their support by donating change in the restaurant canisters. Additionally, McDonalds Global provides training, support and matching funds for our local grant making efforts. The remainder of the annual operating income comes from individuals, organizations and corporate donors.
Who owns and operates the Ronald McDonald House?
Our house is owned and operated by our local Chapter of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). We are governed by a Board of Directors who are responsible for program development, standards and operations.
How much does it cost to stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado?
Although the actual cost to operate an individual room is approximately $40 per night, families are requested to donate $10 per night. However, the fee is waived for those who cannot afford it. The difference between what is collected and the actual operating costs are covered by donations. Thanks to our valued supporters, the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado will never turn a family away due to their inability to pay.
Who is eligible to stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado?
Children (ages birth to 18) who are being treated at Memorial's Hospital for Children and their families are eligible. Reservations for families are made by social workers at Memorial's Hospital for Children. Eligibility is determined by the child's illness and the distance the family must travel to be with their ill child.
How long can a family stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
Stays can be as short as one night or as long as a year or more... depending on individual circumstances.
How can I support the Ronald McDonald House?
You can support the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Colorado in a number of ways, especially by donating and volunteering. We could not operate our Ronald McDonald House without donations and volunteers from individuals and groups.
