Our Impact

2024

A Remarkable Chapter

A Letter From Our CEO

This past year has been a remarkable chapter in our story. Together, we expanded our reach and opened our doors to even more families in need, offering the comfort and care they deserve during one of the most difficult times in their lives. The addition of eight rooms has allowed us to serve more families, but even with this growth, the demand for our services continues to exceed our capacity, and we often find ourselves operating with a waitlist.

This year also marked a significant transition for RMHCWM as we bid farewell to our longtime leader Ellen Carpenter. As I step into this role, I am humbled by the opportunity to continue building, with vision and dedication, supported by our growing team and unwavering community of supporters.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be an exciting year. We are thrilled to introduce a brand-new immersive event, The Event, on May 1, followed by our beloved RMHC Golf Outing on August 6. We’re also grateful for our third-party hosts who organize incredible events like the East Grand Rapids Harvest Fest, Ada Chili & Beer Festival, and the Resolution Run—each of which strengthens our mission to serve families when they need it most.

As we reflect on our accomplishments and plan for the future, one thing remains clear: the need for support is greater than ever. Grand Rapids continues to grow as a health care hub, with world-class facilities like Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, leading the way in specialized medicine and research. This growth brings families from across Michigan and beyond to our city, seeking critical care for their children. While our community is privileged to have access to such exceptional care, many of these families must travel far from home to receive it.

At RMHCWM, we ask the important question: as children are cared for, who cares for the families? The answer is simple—we do. You do.

As a mother, I’ve never had to face that fear. But as the CEO of RMHCWM, I see every day the profound impact of the services we provide, because of you. Families in crisis find more than just a place to stay—they find a community that offers meals, transportation, a place to rest, and, most importantly, peace of mind.

We cannot do this alone. West Michigan is known for its hospitality, kindness, and generosity, and we must live up to that reputation. Together, we can remove the obstacles that families face—housing, food, and transportation—so they can focus entirely on what matters most: the health and healing of their child.

Thank you for being part of our story and for believing in the work we do. Together, we can build a community where every family feels supported, cared for, and welcomed with open arms.

Here’s to an exciting year ahead and the impact we will continue to make together.

Salina Bishop
President & CEO
Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan

DOWNLOAD THE 2024 IMPACT REPORT

Family Impact

By the Numbers

This past year, we’ve seen a significant increase in families needing a place to stay while their child receives medical or mental health care in Grand Rapids. Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan continues to provide a home away from home for families traveling 30 miles or more, ensuring they have a comfortable place to rest, meals to share, and the support they need. As the demand for our services grows, so does our commitment to keeping families close when it matters most.

$1,263,558

Cost Offset

$976,857

Mileage Offset

331

Families Housed

6,414

Nights Occupied

341

Nights – Longest Stay

17.92

Nights – Average Stay

59

MI Counties Served

In 2024, families staying at the Ronald McDonald House traveled from all over the state.

Your Support

By the Numbers

Thanks to the dedication and generosity of our volunteers and donors, we provide essential comforts to families during their stay. Our priority is to create a welcoming, supportive environment that eases their stress during challenging times. With the continued support of our community, we make this possible every day.

$51,000

Value of items Donated to Supportthe House

1,132

Donors

2,728

Pounds of Pop Tabs

900

Lunches

6,630

Treat Batches Made

6,420

Meals Prepared

4,835

Hours Donated in 2,316 volunteer shifts

McDonald’s

Our Founding Partner

Our partnership with McDonald’s, our founding and forever mission partner, continues to be a vital part of our success. While RMHC West Michigan does not receive direct funding from McDonald’s, we are grateful for the support of local McDonald’s Owner/Operators and their customers. Initiatives like Round-Up, coin box donations, and seasonal promotions such as the Shamrock Shake campaign helps provide comfort, care, and resources to the families we serve.

$503,119

Impact of round-up

$122,554

Shamrock Shake Campaign

Events & In-Kind Support

We took a bold leap in 2024, canceling two longstanding events as we reimagined what events could look like for RMHC West Michigan. This shift highlighted the outstanding impact of third-party events and has helped guide us in the right direction for the future.