Groundbreaking held for new Ronald McDonald House in Columbia

COLUMBIA, SC –  Leadership from Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Columbia, community leaders, elected officials and medical professionals gathered earlier for the groundbreaking of the new, larger Ronald McDonald House – the next milestone in RMHC’s mission to provide more families a “home away from home” while their child is being treated at a nearby medical facility.

“It’s a great day for RMHC and the community,” said Ray Tanner, Honorary Chair, Capital Campaign Committee. “After 30-years of continuous care, we’ve outgrown the current House. The construction of the new House will provide much-needed space and improve the experience families share as they find hope and healing.”

RHMC opened its doors in May 1983 – and with 30 years of continuous service in the Midlands, more than 350 families have been helped per year. However, as time passes, RMHC’s Board of Directors and staff have dealt with the ever-increasing costs of operating a small, inadequate building.

“There is a huge need for improvement and additional accommodations,” said Jim Best, President, Board of Directors, RMHC. “We shouldn’t be turning families away. The new House will guarantee that we can continue to fulfill our mission, while local hospitals continue to care for more and more children across the state and region.”

The Midland’s only Ronald McDonald House will double in size and replace the current facility at 2955 Colonial Dr.The first floor of the new House will contain a private family check-in area, two spacious living rooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen, a large dining room, on-site office spaces for all staff, and a conference room. The second floor will feature 16 guest rooms with some handicap-accessibility, two living rooms and a laundry area. The house will also include an elevator to make all floors and rooms accessible to each guest and an outdoor dining/entertainment area.

Photo:  Karen Tanner, USC Athletic Director Ray Tanner, Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin and Palmetto Health CEO Chuck Beaman

The organization already has raised 80 percent of its $5.6 million Capital Campaign for the new House that will better serve families with children being treated at local hospitals. RMHC will continue to fundraise throughout the construction process, which will take about 12 months. Naming opportunities are still available and contributions of all sizes are welcome.

“We are inspired by the support of our corporate donors, including Palmetto Health, Aflac, SCANA, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and Colonial Life,” said Karen Marinelli, Executive Director, RMHC. “Nearing the end of our campaign, we look to our community for support to reach our goal.”

To learn more or to give to RMHC call (803)-254-0118 or visit us on our website at www.RMHCofColumbia.org.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities of Columbia, SC

Each year more than 350 families are served by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Columbia, SC through one or both cornerstone programs, the Ronald McDonald House and the Ronald McDonald Family Room. These families are seeking shelter and solace during an extremely stressful time in their lives – facing the uncertainties of having a critically ill or injured child. It is only because of the generosity and support of the community that we have been able to continue to ensure the highest quality of care and comfort for these families by providing them a safe and loving “home away from home” so they can focus on being together when being together is most important.