Celebrating 51 Years of Global Impact
For 51 years, Ronald McDonald House has proudly been caring for families so they can care for theirs. Since the doors of the first Ronald McDonald House opened, Ronald McDonald House has expanded the same mission around the world, providing essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare. Here’s a look at the growth of our global impact over the past five decades.
1970s: Beginning a Journey of Care Our Ronald McDonald House story began in Philadelphia. In 1974, Philadelphia Eagles tight-end Fred Hill’s daughter, Kim, and her leukemia diagnosis inspired the Hill family to advocate for a place to support families while their children received care at nearby hospitals. Fred collaborated with our co-founder Dr. Audrey Evans to bring that vision to life. By 1979, the success of this vision led to the establishment of 10 more Ronald McDonald Houses across the United States.
1980s: Family Care Grows GloballyThe 1980s marked a period of significant growth and international expansion for Ronald McDonald House. Families in need of accommodations and support near pediatric hospitals drove expanded services across Austria, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands and the U.S. By the end of the decade, Ronald McDonald House had established 117 programs in 5 countries.
1990s: Expanding Family Support In the 1990s, Ronald McDonald House continued to identify new ways to support families along their child’s healthcare journey. The first Ronald McDonald Family Room opened in Kansas in 1992, providing families with a supportive space of respite within the hospital. This new program grew quickly around the world in countries like Ukraine, where mothers like Nadia received much-needed rest after a premature birth. “We could cope more easily. Instead of going across the city, I could go up a floor and see my son. It was crucial for us to stay together at that moment,” said Nadia.
By the end of the decade, Ronald McDonald House continued its international growth with over 205 programs in 26 countries with an expansion of programs across Latin America (Brazil) and Asia (Hong Kong).
2000s: Addressing Healthcare GapsIn the 2000s, Ronald McDonald House began addressing pediatric healthcare disparities through deeper partnerships with local clinical service providers. The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile program launched in the U.S., providing essential healthcare services in underserved communities. Ronald McDonald Care Mobile programs offer a variety of services based on the needs of the community, like dental, medical, and health education.
By 2009, Ronald McDonald House opened nearly 400 programs, including early cancer detection education programs in Brazil and Poland, further expanding our positive global impact.
2010s: Advancing Family-Centered CareDuring the 2010s, Ronald McDonald House focused on advocating for family-centered care, collaborating closely with global government and healthcare leaders to promote the importance of family participation in their child’s care. In 2013, Ronald McDonald House established its first program in Africa (South Africa) and expanded to more than 750 programs worldwide.
2020s: Family Needs Lead to Growth and InnovationNow, Ronald McDonald House continues to innovate and grow, tailoring programs and services to better meet the needs of families. As of 2024, Ronald McDonald House offers 1,032 programs in 62 countries and regions, all advocating for families to ensure the best health outcomes for children.
The Ronald McDonald House journey of global impact is a testament to the power of community and compassion. From our first program in Philadelphia to today’s international presence, Ronald McDonald House has consistently provided essential support to families during some of their most challenging times. As the organization continues to both grow and innovate, our vision remains clear: create a world where every family has what they need to ensure the best health outcomes for their children.
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“Having already endured trauma during the evacuation from Afghanistan, keeping the families together was our top priority.”
“The Ronald McDonald House was extraordinary. The staff was extremely kind and it truly is a home away from home.”
These partners and their consistent steadfast support is essential to our ability to help families around the world feel at home…even when they can’t be.
“It was great to all be together when my brother was sick. When we visited him at the hospital, he was always smiling and happy to see us.”
“Ronald McDonald House helps keep families together and feel supported throughout their journey.”
“Sophia and Yuri found a community of support in other families going through similar situations.”
“It was such a relief because the girls were very compromised in the beginning and it just allowed us to focus on them.”
“The smiles on their faces were priceless and motivated me to continue volunteering.”
“We are grateful to be able to count committed partners like Cargill®.”
“When Juliana was hospitalized, we could rest knowing we were just steps away from her hospital bed thanks to Ronald McDonald House.”
"Thankfully, our valued partners recognize that now more than ever, the Ronald McDonald House system is reliant on their support."
“Ray Kroc Heritage Society donors continue the legacy of Ray Kroc, in whose memory Ronald McDonald House was founded.”
“I am honored to be entrusted with leadership of this truly superb organization.”
"I have to be here by her side."
“We found more than a roof over our head, we found our family."
“This is more than a place to sleep and eat…a place to be supported together.”
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“The gift of being together just makes you feel like you’re going to be okay.”
“We found comfort in spending time with family and newfound friends.”
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