What charity did McDonald’s establish in 1984 to support children and families?

McDonald’s established Ronald McDonald House Charities in 1984 to support children and families.

The organization grew from the Ronald McDonald House program, which began in Philadelphia in 1974 after the Philadelphia Eagles and local medical supporters helped create housing near a children’s hospital. The first house gave families a place to stay close to children receiving medical treatment.

In 1984, the broader Ronald McDonald House Charities organization was created to coordinate support programs and fundraising connected with McDonald’s restaurants, franchisees, employees, and customers. Its work expanded beyond houses to include family rooms and other initiatives.

The charity’s name is sometimes shortened informally to RMHC, but the full name is the canonical answer. It is a separate nonprofit organization rather than a McDonald’s menu brand or advertising campaign.