Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton

History

Established in 1980.

In 1978, a small group of parents, Children’s Medical Center staff, and volunteers identified the need for temporary housing to serve families of critically ill children in the Dayton area. Local McDonald’s owner/​operators pledged over half of the funds needed for the purchase and renovation of the 14^th Ronald McDonald House built at 741 Valley Street.

On February 1, 1980 the Dayton Ronald McDonald House opened. In 1992, leadership recognized the need for growth and on November 5, 1998, the Ronald McDonald House of Dayton moved into the current facility at 555 Valley Street. This House has 14 overnight guest bedrooms with private baths, four kitchens, a large dining room, a playroom, two family rooms, a library, elevator and other amenities.