About Ronald McDonald House

Your child is seriously ill. For parents, these are among the most terrifying words in the world. Imagine the stress, fear and anxiety families face as they cope with their child's illness. Imagine the fear and uncertainty the children must struggle with. Imagine facing that struggle alone.

Ronald McDonald House Hamilton (RMHH) – the house that love built – is a safe and secure home away from home for families of critically-ill children and babies who are receiving care at area hospitals. This house that love built provides an economical refuge for families during this most stressful time in their lives.

RMHH is located next to McMaster Children's Hospital, an internationally recognized hospital for its treatment of neo-natal health cases and juvenile cancer cases.

While staying at the House, each family enjoys a private, uniquely designed bedroom with en-suite bathroom. They also have access to a large, fully-equipped kitchen and no-charge laundry facilities. Lounges and playrooms provide an environment where families are able to meet and share their concerns and feelings with others in similar situations.

The House relies on the support of the community and the wonderful volunteers who make the House a home. Its Board of Directors consists of volunteer members from business, medical and community backgrounds.

RMHH serves communities within a wide radius. Some of these areas include: Niagara, Waterloo, Wellington, Dufferin, Brant, Haldimand-Norfolk, Halton and even other provinces and other countries.

While McDonald's and Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Canada, is a long-term committed partner to us, we have a significant need to fundraise in the community. RMHC of Canada guarantees every house in Canada a minimum annual contribution of $100,000 to assist in operating costs and funds 50 per cent of major renovations and capital improvements.

For Hamilton, this amount is approximately 20 per cent of our operating costs. In addition to this commitment, the House also receives considerable in kind and cash support through events, suppliers, coin boxes and McHappy Day. The remaining amount of our operating budget is raised through individual and corporate donations and is essential for the ongoing operation of the House.

Ronald McDonald House has made an enormous difference to thousands of sick children and their families since it opened in 1993. Time and again our families thank us for the 'kindness and support' they receive at the House and say they can't imagine how they would have coped without our service.

For more information, please visit the Ronald McDonald House Hamilton website at www.rmhhamilton.ca