History of the New Mexico Ronald McDonald House

As Albuquerque became the regional center for critical medical care in New Mexico, the need for a place where out-of-town families could live while their children received care became essential. New Mexico’s Ronald McDonald House was conceived in 1979 when three Albuquerque hospitals, interested individuals, medical groups, local McDonald’s owner/operators and the Junior League of Albuquerque received $25,000 in seed money from McDonald’s Ray Kroc Fund. The group incorporated and established a volunteer board. The Junior League pledged money and volunteers to facilitate the building of the house and the University of New Mexico Board of Regents provided a piece of land near the hospital with a 50-year lease for the site. The whole state rallied to help raise funds for the project and on October 30, 1982, a dream came true for New Mexico when our own Ronald McDonald House opened its doors as the 41st in the country. Since then over 25,000 families have stayed in this comfortable and supportive home environment.

In 1985, an additional ten bedrooms were added to the adobe style Ronald McDonald House that now provides 18-guestrooms with private baths, a family room, atriums, expanded kitchen facilities, a laundry room and an outdoor play area.

While the emotional strain of having an ill or injured child is trying enough, most families staying at the House are also experiencing financial strain. A nominal $15 per night fee is requested, but the House never turns anyone away due to lack of financial resources. Donations, grants, in-kind services, and volunteer support all enable the New Mexico Ronald McDonald House to accommodate families no matter what their financial circumstances.