Support for the House:

McDonald’s and its franchisees across Scotland are incredible fundraisers and ambassadors for Ronald McDonald House Glasgow. Local restaurant teams regularly raise vital funds for the House in a number of creative ways, including car washes, bake sales, Kiltwalks and even bungee jumps.

Back Story:

We are one of three independent Ronald McDonald Houses in the UK and currently the only House in Scotland. How we came about is all thanks to the hard work, determination and vision of Gerry McCudden. As Scotland’s very first McDonald’s franchisee, Gerry had the opportunity to see Ronald McDonald Houses in operation first hand during his visits to America. He quickly realised how beneficial this service would be to families who find themselves in Glasgow, away from home and supporting a seriously ill child. At the time, there were no facilities at the then Royal Hospital for Sick Children (known best as ‘Yorkhill Children’s Hospital’) for families to stay together.

Inspired by the support he witnessed in America, he instigated the charity “Yorkhill Family House Ltd” which runs as Ronald McDonald House Glasgow. Initially based next to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in the Yorkhill area of Glasgow, we officially opened our doors to families on 6 March 1996. When paediatric services were re-located to the newly built Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow in 2015, we moved into a purpose built house, only 5 minutes’ walk from the hospital, in order to maintain seamless support for families. Since first opening, over 11,000 families have passed through our doors.

Sadly Gerry passed away in 2013, but the House lives on as his legacy. Thanks to Gerry the House gives seriously ill children the best gift of all – their families.