Gulf Coast Children’s Medical Foundation, Inc.

In November of 1981, a group of dedicated volunteers formed the Gulf Coast Children’s Medical Foundation, Inc. (name was later changed to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida, Inc.) to organize and support the House. Dr. Bell was the driving force behind the House and with the help of McDonald’s restaurant owners and the community, the 6-bedroom house opened its doors in 1984 and served 271 families.