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Global History
Our first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia, PA, USA, in 1974, after recognizing the need for parents to stay close to their hospitalized child. As we opened more House Programs around the world, it became clear that caring for the family of a sick child was as important as caring for the child.
That was the beginning of our unique role as a children’s charity, enabling, supporting and facilitating family-centered care. Our Ronald McDonald House Programs, located near top children’s hospitals, allow parents who are far from home to stay close to their hospitalized child and benefit from the comforts of home without incurring hotel and food costs.
Ronald McDonald Family Room Programs offer a quiet respite for all families right in the hospital. And Ronald McDonald Care Mobile Programs bring fundamental medical and dental care to underserved communities.
Acknowledgement of Country
Ronald McDonald House Charities WA acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of Indigenous Australia. We recognise their enduring and continuing connection to the sky, lands, waters, and culture of this land.