Southern California McDonald's Commits $1M to LLRMH Expansion

For nearly 20 years, the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House (LLRMH) has been a home away from home for families with seriously ill children throughout Southern California. The House, which is a program of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Southern California, keeps families close by and together while offering stability and vital resources during an unimaginable time. As more families look to the House for that comfort and support, the McDonald’s Operators’ Association of Southern California (MOASC) has made a $1 million donotion to help more than double the size of the House. The expansion will expand the number of rooms available to families from 21 to 54, increase the size of the kitchen and dining areas, and expand the common areas, such as the playroom and business office. The House is located steps from Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and serves more than 1,000 families each year from areas including Riverside, San Bernardino, Coachella Valley and beyond. The program is often at capacity and currently works to place families at local hotels until a room becomes available. In 2013, more than 800 families were referred to hotels. “McDonald’s is the Mission Partner for Ronald McDonald House Charities and we take that legacy and partnership very seriously,” said Clay Paschen III, McDonald’s owner/operator and president of the MOASC. “We know that nothing matters more than family and we look forward to continuing to support the Chapter and the Loma Linda House as it works to impact countless more lives by giving children support, stability and the best medicine of all – their families.” Plans for the expansion have been approved and a groundbreaking will be scheduled for later this year. “We’re turning away families every night and has the populations continue to grow in surrounding communities we have ensure we’re equipped to handle the increased need,” said Mike Kovack, executive director, LLRMH. “McDonald’s has been an incredible supporter from the beginning and we’re beyond appreciative that once again they’re there to support us.” McDonald’s is the Charity’s largest corporate partner, but no one company can solely fund the growth of its programs. Community members and businesses interested in pledging funds over a 3- to 5-year period are encouraged to contact Mike Kovack, Executive Director of the Loma Linda House, at mkovack@llrmh.org, or by phone at 909-558-8338.