The Beginnings

The decision to build a Ronald McDonald House in Bend was made after completion of a feasibility study conducted in 1991 by visionaries in our medical, business and philanthropic communities. According to the research, 56% of the patients served in this medical community were from outside Deschutes County. Actual construction on the House began in October 1995., an effort that literally involved hundreds of individual volunteers, business owners, community organizations and more. Every need, from windows to landscaping, to furniture and bedding, was donated to make the dream of Ronald McDonald House in Bend a reality. Since opening our doors October 1, 1997, Ronald McDonald House® has served over 2,700 families throughout Central and Eastern Oregon, other areas of the state, country, and even from other parts of the world.

RMHC of Central Oregon Today

Today, our "House that Love Built" continues to welcome all families in need with its warm, supportive atmosphere. On average, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Oregon® serves 200 families per year with a 13-day average length of stay. However, there is no  limit to the number of days that a family can stay. We are here, with our house lights and "heart-lights" on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for as long as our families need us. Rooms are provided on a space available basis to families with children 21 years old and younger. In addition, we also care for high-risk pregnancy moms-to-be who must remain close to emergency medical care. A $20 per night room donation is suggested, but no family is ever turned away due to an inability to pay.

Click here to download a document that tells the RMHC of Central Oregon story.