New Ronald McDonald House in Halifax Receives $2.95 Million for Green and Inclusive Upgrades
Halifax, Nova Scotia — The new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax is set to become greener and more inclusive, thanks to a $2.95 million investment from the federal government. This significant funding boost was announced by Minister Sean Fraser, MP Andy Fillmore, and Lori Barker, Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Charities Atlantic.
Breaking ground in 2022, the new Ronald McDonald House is still under construction but will now feature advanced green technology and enhanced accessibility. The federal investment will enable the integration of geothermal and solar energy systems, positioning it to become the first net-zero carbon Ronald McDonald House. Additionally, the building will pursue accessibility certification from the Rick Hansen Foundation, ensuring it meets national standards for meaningful access.
Investing in the places we love helps build stronger communities.
The new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax will support up to 1,200 families a year.
Thanks for the work you do to help make families feel at home when they’re travelling to get their kids the treatments they need. pic.twitter.com/J9HlU8RYOx
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) June 2, 2024
Replacing the existing facility at 1133 Tower Road, the new Ronald McDonald House will double its capacity, increasing the number of families supported annually from 600 to 1,200. This expansion will also enhance the support programs available to families, including meal services and family activities, and extend greater assistance to equity-deserving groups.
The Ronald McDonald House serves families with children (18 years of age or younger) who must travel to Halifax for medical care. Currently, eligibility to stay at the House extends to families living more than 40 kilometers from the IWK Health Centre.
The federal government has emphasized the importance of building vibrant, green, and inclusive communities. This initiative is part of a broader commitment, as detailed in Budget 2024, which includes an additional $500 million investment in the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. These measures aim to create more affordable housing, boost economic growth, and promote fairness across generations.
“The federal government is proud to support the Ronald McDonald House in their mission to help more families in the region with sick children. We are also proud to support their additional goals of making this new building greener and more accessible,” stated the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
The new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities. By investing in such vital infrastructure, the government continues to support the well-being of families during their most challenging times, while also advancing environmental sustainability and accessibility.
