RMHC provides funding for specific projects that address an organization’s real problems and have a measurable impact, such as start-up programs, one-time programs, capital improvement or durable equipment purchase. It does not provide funding for day-to-day operations or general funds. In return for funding your project, RMHC asks that appropriate recognition be given to our organization through the placement of a plaque or other signage and/or press releases acknowledging our donation.

These guidelines are provided to help your organization prepare a successful grant application. Please review them carefully and include with your proposal all the information requested.

Preparation and Submission Guidelines:

All proposals must be submitted in English, single-spaced and single-sided and must follow the RMHC grant application format precisely. The proposal must include two copies of the grant application, including attachments and supporting materials.

Cover letter
On organization letterhead and signed by a management official, as well as the project leader/principal investigator. The cover letter should briefly outline the:

  • Background of the organization
  • Nature of the proposal
  • Concise description of needs
  • Specific purpose of the funds requested
  • Amount requested

Endorsement letter (if applicable)
From a McDonald’s staff, owner/operator or RMHC trustee. The letter should indicate the endorser’s support of the project or the program.

Target Population
Summarize your target population in measurable terms, including who the audience is, how many will be served, age, number of participants and percentage of demographic groups.

Organizational background
Briefly describe your organization and past program accomplishments.

Objectives and aims
State objectives and benefits of the program.

Description of Project
Describe the need or issue to be addressed, specific purpose of funds requested and what is unique about your program.

Future Funding
Describe your plans for funding this project in the future. If other funding sources are already in place, please include this information.

Previous Funding
Indicate if your organization has received prior funding from RMHC. Provide dates, amounts, and name of program(s) funded.

Evaluation
Indicate how your organization will evaluate the program.

Attachments
All proposals must include the following:

  • IRS 501(c)(3) letter (exceptions apply only to municipalities)
  • Itemized project budget totaling amount requested
  • Current year’s operating budget
  • Most recent audited financial statements (loose leaf - not bound)
  • Current list of Board of Director’s
  • Donor information showing all private, corporate and foundation support over $500

If any of the above items are not attached, your application will be considered incomplete and your proposal will not be considered.

Checklist
A completed checklist indicates that all requested information has been submitted.

Deadlines for submission
The Board of Trustees meets three times a year to review grants in the months of February, June and October. All proposals must be submitted 60 days prior to the Board meeting date. The deadlines for grant applications are as follows:

  • December 1st for February meeting
  • April 1st for June meeting
  • August 1st for October meeting

Grant Application submission
Please address all correspondence to:

    Ronald McDonald House Charities
    New York Tri-State Area, Inc.
    c/o McDonald’s Corporation
    105 Eisenhower Parkway, Third Floor
    Roseland, New Jersey 07068