A digital rendering of the new Ronald McDonald House being constructed in Little Rock.
With $7.5 million raised and $1 million to go, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas broke ground on a new, 35,000 SF house on Tuesday morning at the entrance of Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
The state’s only Ronald McDonald House will replace the current facility at 1009 Wolfe St. The new House will provide families a larger and more comfortable place to stay while their children are receiving treatment at local hospitals.
The five-story building will include: 32 bedroom suites; a large kitchen and dining room; laundry facilities; family lounges; indoor and outdoor play areas; a tree house; and a basketball half court.
Tyson Foods Inc. of Springdale gave $500,000 to the project and will also donate food to help keep the kitchen stocked upon opening. Construction is projected to take 14 months, with the goal for the fundraising to be complete by April 15.
Rodney Showmar, chairman of the nonprofit’s board, called the construction of this new home “indicative of improvement” in the city.
“This provides a home away from home,” Showmar. “With this new home, we can serve a greater number of families and do it in a better way.”
The facility is free for the families of patients and provides a way for parents to stay closer to their children.
“It’s an issue of community,” Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola said. “I’m excited to see what will be built here.”
Sign up for Daily E-news
