The new House - costs

What is the cost of the new House?

The cost of the entire project is estimated at just over $14m and the Trust needs to raise $9.5m.  A Capital Campaign to raise these funds will start in early 2008.

In 2005 the opportunity arose to purchase the adjoining property to the current House as an investment for our future needs.  The purchase price of $2.1m was funded by key stakeholders and supporters.

What difference will my money make?

We are building a House for 34 families and need everything from a new roof to toilet paper so every little bit counts.

Why do you need so much money?

We're building a commercial property and need to meet commercial regulations. The funds required cover property costs, architect costs, building and construction costs and fundraising costs. The facilities and fit out needs to be of a high standard to cope with the volume of people that will stay in the House.

What about money from the Government?

We currently don't receive any government funding. Some families, however, are entitled to an accommodation allowance from the Ministry of Health to cover part of their stay. Ronald McDonald House claims for their stay.

Why don't you charge families to stay?

The Trust acknowledges that families are already under significant stress coping with the illness and treatment of a child without worrying about paying for suitable accommodation.

How will you support a bigger House long term?

A key objective of the Capital Campaign is to develop a greater list of supporters so we have a committed group to help us operate on an ongoing basis. 

Why can't McDonalds pay for it?

McDonald's Restaurants Limited is a key supporter through its own charity, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). RMHC provides each House with an annual operating grant and a significant capital grant, but does not have the funds to build all of the new Houses in New Zealand.

How is the current House funded?

We receive a grant each year from Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) to help cover our operating costs, and we have a database of donors. Some families have part of the cost of their stay paid for by the Ministry of Health. 

What's the cost of running the current House?

It currently costs $500,000 per year to run the house. In spite of the income received from RMHC we still need to raise more than $400,000 each year in the form of donations and sponsorships to keep these vital facilities running

What is the projected cost of running the new House?

We estimate that it will cost $1.5 million per year.