McDonald's established Ronald McDonald House Charities as a separate nonprofit organization in 1984.
The organization grew from the Ronald McDonald House concept, which began in Philadelphia in 1974 to provide families with accommodation near children receiving hospital treatment. McDonald's, franchisees, employees, and customers supported the effort through fundraising and donations.
In 1984, the charitable work was organized as Ronald McDonald House Charities, commonly abbreviated RMHC. The organization supports programs connected with seriously ill children and their families, including Ronald McDonald Houses and related facilities.
RMHC is sometimes described as simply a McDonald's corporate program. It has a close historical relationship with the restaurant company, but it operates as an independent nonprofit network with local chapters and governing structures.