Right now Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan has to turn away 1 in every 3 families in need of a place to stay when their children are in the hospital.

That's why they are expanding.

Today (Tues) was the launch of a 10-million dollar capital campaign for the expansion.

Also announced today, a kick-start to the fundraising with a half-million dollars in contributions from the campaign's co-chairs, volunteer leadership and the RMHS Board of Directors.

Tammy Forrester, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House, says the expansion would mean 31 rooms instead of 13, an expanded kitchen, expanded dining room, a games room, and a fitness room.

The goal is to have the money raised before Christmas.

Forrester says the fundraising team has been working quietly behind the scenes since March.

She adds that construction should begin within the next two months, with a completion date in early 2014.

(ct sept18/12)