Government of Canada funds for new RMH Toronto project

Today it was announced that Ronald McDonald House Toronto (RMH Toronto) received an $8.7 million capital grant towards building a new House from the Government of Canada, as part of a joint Canada-Ontario investment. The announcement was made by the Honourable John Baird, Canada's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, and long-time friend of the House George Smitherman, Member of Provincial Parliament for Toronto Centre. The new RMH Toronto will be the largest Ronald McDonald House in the world!

"Today I'm proud to join with Ronald McDonald House Toronto to announce an infrastructure project that will benefit families in need, create jobs, and boost the local economy," said Minister Baird. "Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, our government has announced an historic number of infrastructure projects to help strengthen our communities, including here in Toronto."

This $8.7 million Government of Canada grant follows the $9 million grant from the Ontario Government towards the project in spring 2008. The Government of Canada's funding is part of its new national Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The commitment from the Government of Ontario is from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

With research showing that children do better surrounded by the comforts of home and family, RMH Toronto plays a vital role in the continuum of paediatric healthcare delivery. Advances in medical care, improved patient outcomes and expanded outpatient care means the demand for the services the House provides is increasing dramatically – at times the turn away rate is as high as 70 percent.

The remarkable new RMH Toronto will be located at 240 McCaul Street, and will accommodate almost three times as many families as the current location. Located steps away from major hospitals such as SickKids and Mount Sinai, the incredible new House will be environmentally sustainable and have an energy efficient design – targeting LEED Gold Certification.

Designed by award-winning architectural firm Montgomery Sisam, the total cost for the new House is approximately $32.5 million. To date, $29 million has been raised. Construction is expected to begin February 2010.