Ark-La-Tex families with critically ill children being treated at local hospitals will soon find sanctuary at a new Ronald McDonald House thanks in part to an American Electric Power Foundation (AEP Foundation) grant award.

Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) announced the AEP Foundation award of $250,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana (RMHCAR-NLA). This grant aims to support the construction of the Ronald McDonald House in Shreveport, La., giving those who require a “home away from home” the resources they need to focus on their families.

Together, the AEP Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana aim to transform the lives of tens of thousands of families, offering solace, support, and strength during difficult times.

"Families come to Ronald McDonald House on the worst days of their lives,” said Janell Mason, CEO of RMHCAR-NLA. By constructing the Ronald McDonald House Shreveport-Bossier, we aim to alleviate the financial and emotional stress of families and allow them to solely focus on their seriously ill child."

The home will be built at 9100 Susan Drive in Shreveport, and construction is slated to start in mid-March. Notably, one of the community rooms within the House will be named the AEP Foundation Family Great Room, symbolizing the organization's profound impact on the community. This facility will act as a sanctuary for families facing the challenges of critical medical care for their child.

Every Ronald McDonald House provides a free, safe haven for families of critically ill, hospitalized children, with all the comforts of home and the hospitality of compassionate staff and volunteers. Families also find support from one another, creating a community that uniquely understands the impact of a child's life-changing medical crisis.

“Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana is supporting our most vulnerable community members by offering a “home away from home” so their family is always near as they work toward a healthier future,” said Brett Mattison, SWEPCO president and chief operating officer. “It is our privilege and honor to announce this grant that will contribute toward creating a nurturing environment where families can find comfort and support during challenging times.”

In addition to the grant, SWEPCO’s Energy Efficiency team consulted with the architect to incorporate energy-efficient design elements in the House. This will maximize the home’s sustainability and help reduce its environmental footprint.
 
"Since its inception in 1981, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana has been a cornerstone of support for families in need," said Michael Corbin, SWEPCO External Affairs Manager.

Corbin’s dedication to the project extends beyond his role at SWEPCO as he has dedicated his personal time to assist as a member of the Ronald McDonald House capital campaign committee.

"Shreveport has an urgent need for this type of care and it is an honor to be a part of something that can be life changing to so many families," Corbin added.
 
With a fundraising goal of $10 million, the House will feature 20 private suites, ensuring families have a free, comfortable space close to their child. In addition, local families with a child in the hospital, who are not staying in the House, will have access to the common spaces in the House for "Day Use", providing a refuge from a hospital's demanding environment. These spaces will include lounges, a fully stocked pantry and kitchen, a large dining room, indoor and outdoor play areas, and laundry and shower facilities.
 “The impact of this project reaches far beyond the brick and mortar, bringing together a community of caring individuals who understand the importance of providing a "home away from home" for those in need,” said Mattison.