What was the name of McDonald’s charity house program founded in Philadelphia in 1974?

The charity house program founded in Philadelphia in 1974 was called Ronald McDonald House.

The first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia in 1974 to provide families with a place to stay near children receiving medical treatment. The project grew from cooperation among Philadelphia Eagles players, a children’s hospital, local medical supporters, and McDonald’s representatives. McDonald’s helped raise money and promote the program.

The name connected the charitable initiative to Ronald McDonald, the company’s established family-oriented mascot. Over time, the program expanded into Ronald McDonald House Charities, which supports houses, family rooms, and related services in many countries.

A Ronald McDonald House is not a McDonald’s restaurant or a fictional advertising setting. It is accommodation and support for families of seriously ill children, with local houses operating in partnership with nearby hospitals and community organizations.