THE HISTORY OF RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

The first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia in 1974. It was largely the inspiration of Fred Hill, a Philadelphia Eagles football player whose daughter was undergoing treatment of leukemia. He enlisted the aid of his teammates and at the local McDonald’s restaurant franchises to raise the funds to purchase and renovate the first House. The House was named for the children’s character Ronald McDonald who ranks second only to Santa Claus in recognition among children. This recognition of the person and the House it was named for helped the children feel at ease and brighten the atmosphere of the House.

Without a Ronald McDonald House, the only lodging alternative for many would be lonely and expensive hotel rooms, hospital cots, or even back seats of the family car. Finding themselves in a strange city, away from the crucial support of friends and relatives, many parents find this to be a desperately unhappy experience - at a time when their child needs their strength and encouragement the most.

The Ronald McDonald House is located within walking distance of Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Corpus Christi Medical Center and a short drive to all Christus Spohn Hospitals and Bay Area Hospital.

It is a place where children being treated as outpatients can live with their families, just as important, it is a place where parents can meet and talk with other families who are experiencing the same fears and concerns and establish a mutual support system so critically needed at this time. The Ronald McDonald House provides a warm and friendly environment filled with love and understanding. It is the...

" House that love built”

Did You Know...

Who operates the Ronald McDonald House?

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Corpus Christi, has a Board of Directors and an executive director who oversees all operations of the House in addition to other staff members who assist in running the Houses. Volunteers are key to keeping the Houses running smoothly on a day-to-day basis.

How do I locate other Ronald McDonald Houses?

The national Ronald McDonald House Web page (www.rmhc.org) has links to other Houses throughout the U.S.