Ronald McDonald House to open in Shreveport; charity seeks final funds and sign variance

Leaders of the new Ronald McDonald House told the Shreveport City Council on Sept. 9 that construction at their facility is nearly complete, and they asked for the council’s support on a sign variance and for continued fundraising to cover operating costs.

Laurie Moore, identified in the meeting as the mission director for the house, said the facility will serve families of critically ill children from a 200-mile radius and that families will stay free of charge. “We provide every resource … and we keep the family close,” Moore said, listing transportation, meals, laundry and other supports.

Moore said the project’s original 2022 campaign target was $10 million and that rising construction costs have increased the campaign goal to $12.5 million. As of the Sept. 9 meeting, organizers had raised $11.4 million and said they still needed about $1.1 million. Moore asked the council for help with a variance for a building sign controlled by the charity’s national organization and said the house’s operating costs are expected to exceed $600,000 a year.

Council members praised the facility and its local campaign leadership. Councilman Griggs said a tour of the house showed him the project’s potential to help families, and other members noted the city’s prior support during the mayoral administration that began under Mayor Perkins. The house leadership said they will host a VIP donors reception on Monday, Oct. 27, and a public opening on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

Speakers said the house’s day-to-day admissions will be managed by hospital social workers; the house itself will not select occupants. Moore said the house’s funds remain local and are held in community banks.

The council did not take a vote on any ordinance related to the house on Sept. 9; staff asked council support for the signage variance at a later step. Council members publicly encouraged continued donations and volunteer support.