Do you recycle pop tabs?
Yes, we support your recycling of pop tabs for the benefit of our program and value this donor activity by many community groups and individuals in and around Tampa Bay. Since the value of aluminum fluctuates, and given the price of gas to bring the tabs to us, as well as limited storage at our Houses, we ask pop tab collectors to turn in their tabs at a local recycling center and send us a check for the value. Often we find that it costs more to mail or deliver the tabs than their value. Many groups like to recycle the entire cans (crushed) to get maximum value from their donation. The following centers accept cans and tabs for recycling. Prices and locations for recycling vary and we suggest you call ahead before making the trip. Locations for Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties are listed below. Outside of those areas please check your local listings for aluminum recycling centers. If you have questions about recycling for RMH, please contact Alison Barrick at (813) 258-6710.

PINELLAS COUNTY

Doesn't McDonald's pay for everything?
McDonald's owner/operators and employees are very involved with the Ronald McDonald House in our area. They provide for 25% of our operating budget through canister collections, in-restaurant promotions, and store fundraisers. The other 75% comes from community support and special events. But, as a not-for-profit with three houses and a $1.7 million annual budget, we rely on the community to help provide for our pediatric families.

What percentage of your budget goes to administrative and fundraising activities?
The United Way organization recommends that a non-profit organization not exceed 25% of its income for administrative and fundraising costs. We are very proud of the fact that the Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay consistently averages 10% annually for our combined fundraising and administration expenses.

What does the change in the canisters go toward at the McDonald's restaurants and does the money stay in this community?
Canister collections go directly to Ronald McDonald House to help keep our doors open for pediatric families. Operational costs include electricity, water, food, paper products, etc. Although 25% is sent to the national office in Chicago, the funds are placed in our grant-making account that comes back to our community to support student college scholarships and other children's charities in our eleven county geographic service area.

Who does the Ronald McDonald House serve?
The Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay serves families that reside out of the area and are seeking medical treatment for their child at bay area pediatric health care facilities. Exceptions are made on a case by case basis.

Are tours given at the Ronald McDonald House?
Yes. Individuals and groups of 10 or less may schedule a tour of the Ronald McDonald House by contacting each House (see bottom of page for contact information). Tours are conducted between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

What should I do if my family needs to stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
To qualify to stay in one of our Houses, a family may be referred or verified by a hospital social worker, nurse, physician or medical staff.

What will I find at the Ronald McDonald House?
The House has private bedrooms and baths. Bedrooms are furnished with either two double beds or two twin beds. Maximum occupancy is four individuals per room (due to fire code restrictions). The House also provides a kitchen with fully-stocked pantry, dining room and laundry facilities, as well as indoor and outdoor recreation areas.

How much does it cost to stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
We ask $10 per night per room. The actual cost for maintaining each room is $50 per night. No families are ever turned away because of their inability to pay.

How long can a family stay at the House?
In most circumstances, 30 days is our maximum stay. From time to time, based on special medical conditions, we do extend the stay limits for a family.

How do families get here from other states/countries?
Families come to us via their own transportation or through special arrangements and sponsorships from outside groups.