What We Do
Ronald McDonald House is a not for profit corporation that operates a “home away from home” for families with seriously or chronically ill or injured children ranging in age from newborn to age twenty one who must travel from home to area hospitals for specialized medical treatments.
Are all Ronald McDonald Houses connected?
Ronald McDonald Houses are owned and operated by local chapters of Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC), based in Oak Brook, Illinois. Each local chapter is licensed by McDonald's Corporation and operates as an IRS-designated 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization. While all chapters are part of the overall RMHC system, each is overseen at the local level by its own Board of Directors and is supported by individuals, organizations, businesses, and foundations within the local community.
What does Ronald McDonald House do for families?
In addition to providing safe and comfortable accommodations and a caring environment, Ronald McDonald House allows families to find a strong support system, establishing friendships with other families facing similar anxieties, hardships, and uncertainties. A family may stay at our House whether the child is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment.
What does a family staying at Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut receive?
Each year, the Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut serves approximately 500 families. Each family has a private guest room. In addition, the House has eight bathrooms, two fully equipped kitchens, a common dining room, a living room, sun porch and indoor and outdoor play areas. The House is handicapped accessible.
Top Medical Reasons families visit the House are for:
- Childhood cancer
- Liver Transplantation
- Premature Birth
How is the House operated?
Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut is an independent, community supported, 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization. A Board of Directors governs the Ronald McDonald House and is responsible for policy making, governance and financial oversight. The Board is comprised of community, medical and McDonald’s representatives. The Board hires the Executive Director who manages the ongoing operations including staffing, public relations, strategic planning and fund raising. In addition to the small staff, we have over 80 volunteers who cover daily and weekly shifts at the House, as well as provide help during our major fundraising events.
How much does it cost a family to stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut?
Families are asked to donate $15 per night; however no family is ever turned away due to the inability to pay. On average it costs $125 a night to operate each guest room.
How is McDonald’s involved with Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut?
The partnership between McDonald’s Corporation and Ronald McDonald House Charities and its programs dates back to the inception of the charitable organization. Collectively McDonald’s utilize their restaurants, advertising dollars, packaging and crew to create customer awareness and support of the charity. Ronald McDonald House Charities® and the McDonald’s Corporation (owner/operators, employees, customers and vendors) also provide financial support for Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut. A portion of our annual operating budget is received through the support of the local Ronald McDonald House Charities and the local McDonald’s Owners/Operators. They also participate in fundraisers, volunteer their time to special events, and serve on our Board of Directors.
Who provides the funding to support Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut?
The vast majority of funding needed to operate the Ronald McDonald House is provided by communities served by the House - individuals, corporations, foundations, and civic groups. The House raises funds in a variety of ways, including special events, major gifts program, annual fund, grant requests, direct mail, planned giving, and Pop Tab programs. The Ronald McDonald House also receives donor designated funds through the United Way.
How can I help?
Donate – The House relies on private donations for funding. Volunteers, in-kind and cash donations are always welcome. All donations are used locally. There are many ways to support the House financially. For additional information, contact Cathy Bignolas (cbignolas@rmh-ct.org)
Volunteer – Get involved! We always need volunteers at the House and for our special events and fundraisers. For more information contact Claire DiMartino at (203) 777-5683 or cdimartino@rmh-ct.org.
Collect Household Items – Donations of pantry and wish list items are always accepted.
Host a House Activity – Plan a meal or activity for our families. These can include arts and crafts, game nights, parties, music or drama presentations, etc. For more information on hosting an activity contact Cathy Bignolas at (203) 777-5683 or cbignolas@rmh-ct.org.
Request a Speaker – We love to bring speakers out to area businesses and organizations to talk about the Ronald McDonald House. Contact Cathy Bignolas (cbignolas@rmh-ct.org).
