In the early 1980s, a small group of dedicated volunteers set out to build the first Ronald McDonald House in Wisconsin because families had no place to stay while their seriously ill child was being treated at Children’s Wisconsin (CW). The outpouring of support to build our House was remarkable; so much so that when we opened in 1984, we called it “The House That Love Built.” Since we opened our doors in 1984, Ronald McDonald House Charities Eastern Wisconsin has kept families together by providing more than 49,000 family stays. These families come from 569 Wisconsin communities, all 50 states, and 49 countries around the world whose children are receiving medical care at Children’s Wisconsin or other area hospitals. In 2019, we provided over 2,561 family stays. We offer a place to call home at little or no cost, so families can stay together. Many families try to contribute what they can—even if it’s the suggested $20 a night donation. In reality, our cost is more than $140 per night. The House is more than just a place to stay. We offer families therapeutic programming, a comprehensive meal program, comfortable community spaces and so much more. A team of over 550 volunteers and a small dedicated staff are always ready to do whatever it takes to make a family’s stay a little easier. Living in a community, side by side, families form friendships and support one another through difficult times.