Welcome to the new Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte, a "home away from home" for families of seriously ill children hospitalized here.

In Charlotte, we are blessed with regional medical centers and local hospitals with expanding pediatric capabilities. These facilities serve not only the families in our community, but take in some of the most serious medical cases across the Carolinas.

The Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte will extend a gracious welcome and a much-needed respite to families traveling here for short-term and extended hospital stays. The Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte will be a haven for families of hospitalized children —- providing the comforts of home and the support of other families facing similar situations.

It will strive to be a "home for healing" for seriously ill children, providing the warmth and comfort of home, along with emotional support and education to promote the well-being of the entire family.

The facility will primarily serve children being treated at Carolinas Medical Center's new 240-bed Levine Children's Hospital and the expanded pediatric practices at Presbyterian Hospital. Plans call for a facility with up to 28 private suites and bedrooms, along with culturally sensitive family kitchens, great room, learning center, playground and sitting porch.

Currently, we are laying foundations for the construction and operation of the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte, with plans to open in 2010. In addition to the capital campaign, we are seeking support from individuals and companies in building the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte.