New Ronald McDonald House to Increase Temporary Housing for Families of Pediatric Patients

SOURCE: WRIC ABC8 News / by Deniel Dookan

RICHMOND, VA — Ronald McDonald House Charities of Richmond (RMHC) has announced new details on its plan to build a 50-room House in the Jackson Ward neighborhood.

The charity provides temporary housing for families who have a child receiving medical treatment at a Richmond area hospital or medical facility. Currently, there are only 15 private rooms available across its facilities at Monument Avenue, Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital and The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.

RHMC held a news conference on Wednesday, at the site of the future facility. The charity says its medical partners have expressed a need to accommodate a growing number of families seeking assistance at Richmond-area pediatric hospitals.

“This means that we will be able to provide much more care, meet the growing demand, and really be that support and comfort for families that are faced with very difficult times,” said RHMC Richmond CEO, Emily Toalson.

The $40 million project is expected to serve up to 3,000 families each year. RMHC says this is three times the number of families that they’re currently servicing.

The new facility is expected to offer an array of amenities such as laundry services, a fully stocked kitchen, play areas and reading rooms. These accommodations are designed to help families maintain a sense of normalcy, while remaining close to their child as they undergo treatment.

“We alleviate the burdens that a family should not have to cope with at some of their most difficult times,” Toalson said.

The 52,000-square-foot facility is projected to open in 2027 – depending on fundraising – and will be located at 505 W. Leigh St. in Richmond.

“This location is ideal because it places us within a mile of the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU and they are our number one referral partner,” she said.

This project replaces the existing Ronald McDonald House on Monument Avenue that opened in 1980. Although this House is their cornerstone program, it has just nine rooms – limiting the number of families that are able to receive help.

RMHC says the house on Monument Avenue will eventually be sold, allowing the charity to focus all of its efforts on the new site.