TYLER, Texas - American Standard Companies Inc. plans to donate and install HVAC comfort systems in Ronald McDonald Houses across the United States.

In addition, American Standard will make a $100,000 cash contribution to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), arrange for ongoing HVAC system maintenance with the support of its local distributors and dealers, and sponsor pajama parties for families staying at the houses.

"American Standard is excited to form a ‘comfort partnership' with RMHC by offering new heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to Ronald McDonald Houses in need. Our hope is to help families feel even more comfortable at their home away from home," said Paul Trotter, vice president of sales, American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning.

Each year, thousands of families stay at Ronald McDonald Houses across the country while children receive medical treatment at nearby hospitals. During 2005, eight Ronald McDonald Houses will receive comfort systems in Boston; Chicago; Dallas; Houston; St. Louis; Nashville, Tenn.; Sacramento, Calif.; and Tampa, Fla.

"RMHC takes great pride in knowing that our Ronald McDonald House program provides an environment with all the comforts of home for families dealing with their children's illness," said Marty Coyne, vice president and chief operating officer of RMHC. "This donation from American Standard brings us even closer to our goal of lifting children to a better tomorrow."

Publication date: 05/23/2005