Our History

The Ronald McDonald House opened its doors 28 years ago as a “home-away-from-home” where families stay while their children undergo extensive medical treatment. Today, the House is able to serve 8 families every night.  Here, parents and children lead a life as normal as possible during their traumatic times without the financial burden of costly hotel and travel expenses. Our home offers these families’ comfortable beds, hot meals, a caring staff, all just a few blocks from the hospital.

Ronald McDonald House was originally built in 1938 by a local Tallahassee family.  Local physicians, McDonald’s Owner/Operators and other community volunteers came together to start Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tallahassee, Inc.  Since we opened our doors, over 6400 families have been served.  Our house features 8 private bedrooms, a large welcoming kitchen for nourishment of our families and a place where many gather to talk about their day, a comfortable living room, family room and playroom surround a large outdoor deck to enjoy the nice afternoons outside.  Our lush back yard features a fountain area with seating for contemplation and relaxation.

Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®), a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) corporation, creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. Through its global network of 325 Chapters in more than 63 countries and regions, its three core programs, the Ronald McDonald House®, the Ronald McDonald Family Room® and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®, All RMHC-operated and supported programs, enable family-centered care, provide a bridge to quality health care, are a vital part of the health care continuum and give children and families the time they need to heal and cope better together.