OKLAHOMA CITY – House Majority Leader Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, today commented on the awarding of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that will go to local nonprofits to provide long-term housing or care facilities for children and their families.

The House and Senate this week passed House Bill 2943, which appropriates $4 million to Ronald McDonald House Charities for construction of a new home to be located by Mercy Hospital in north Oklahoma City, and $2 million to the Bethany Children's Health Center for the renovation of the center's complex care units, which are 25 years old. 

"Both of these organizations do an amazing job of caring for children who have very complex health care needs as well as for their families who need to stay nearby to be involved in their care and offer loving support," West said. "It was such an honor to help secure this necessary funding that I know will greatly help relieve the burden these young patients and their loved ones face."

Ronald McDonald House Charities provides temporary housing and a place to rest and regroup for Oklahoma families who have a seriously ill or injured child hospitalized in the Oklahoma City area. This keeps families and children close to each other and the care and resources they need.

The Bethany Children's Health Center provides pediatric rehabilitation and 24-hour inpatient and out-patient complex care for children and is the only inpatient pediatric rehabilitation facility in Oklahoma. The multidisciplinary team at the center works with patients and their families to maximize every child’s potential, and ensure the family has the training and resources needed for a smooth transition from hospital to home.

HB2943 now moves to the governor for his consideration of signing it into law. Rep. West carried the bill on the House floor.