The P.E.I. government is contributing $1.25 million towards the construction of a new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax that, once complete, will double the number of families it can serve annually.
The announcement was made Tuesday in Stratford.
The facility will be a home away from home for children and their loved ones who visit the IWK Health Centre for treatment.
Lori Barker, CEO of RMHC Atlantic, said she’s grateful for P.E.I.’s contribution.
“While the new Ronald McDonald House will be built in Halifax, it truly belongs to all of us,” the Summerside native said in a news release.
“We thank the province of Prince Edward Island for recognizing the important role RMHC Atlantic plays in reducing the financial and emotional stresses families face while travelling for medical care.”
For parents with a sick or seriously injured child, life can be very difficult. Their situation leaves them emotionally drained, anxious and financially stressed. Without the support of Ronald McDonald House, Maritime families would face an estimated $272 per day for accommodations and meals.
In the past 10 years, Ronald McDonald House in Halifax has provided 6,368 nights of comfort for Island families and in 2019, the organization supported 2,076 Maritime families.
Along with the Ronald McDonald House, RMHC Atlantic’s programs also include two Ronald McDonald family rooms which provide families with a space for calm and support at the IWK Health Centre and the Moncton Hospital.
