In 1979, when our doors first opened a gallon of gas cost �.88, today the cost is $3.09 a gallon. A new house cost $71,800. Today that same house would be $200,000. A postage stamp that cost �.15 cents, today costs �.49. Costs, too, have grown at Ronald McDonald House Charities, but one fact has stayed constant. For families of sick or injured children, staying here is priceless.
Every Ronald McDonald House is a unique collaboration between hospitals, community leaders, major donors and partners. The community is made richer and better because of Ronald McDonald Houses, the family's medical journey is made easier because of the House's existence, and those that give to the Houses are receiving a sense of satisfaction that money can't buy.
Thirty-five years ago when our Founders made the decision to open the third Ronald McDonald House in the world they couldn't have predicted the future growth and importance of this unique mission. These special Houses were a gift they gave to the community.
The Houses were just the beginning of this gift to the community. In the 35 years that have followed, we have added a second House in Aurora, three Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, Sky High Hope Camp (a special camp for children with cancer), three Ronald McDonald CareMobiles, a Scholarship Program and a community grants program. 2014 brings the opportunity for more growth and we hope you will follow us and join us for the ride.
As an organization, we are constantly working to strengthen our programs and services to ensure they best meet the needs of our families.
Thanks for giving to our community, being part of our journey and making a difference in our region.
Pam Whitaker, Executive Director
"Thank you for being here for our family while Justin is going through so much."
The Bell family