Lansing’s Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan does more than just love seeing people smile.

The house provides comfort to those who need it badly.

This year alone, the Lansing house has provided a place to stay for 220 out-of-town families whose children were in the hospital.

On Saturday, the facility, at 121 S. Holmes St., will be hosting a celebration in honor of its one-year anniversary.

Joan Bauer, member of the Ronald McDonald House board of directors and a Lansing City Council member, said she believes in the cause and purpose of the house.

“The whole house is made possible by the generosity of the businesses and people of the community,” she said.

Each of the house’s eight bedrooms can accommodate four people. Any family with an ill child is eligible to stay at the house regardless of its financial situation.

The celebration starts at 9 a.m. with the children’s fun run and walk, followed by the adult’s 5K run and walk at 9:30 a.m. All events will be held at the house.

Rebecca Reagan, the house’s public relations chairperson, said families can participate in the fun run and walks by donating $20 per family or $15 for an individual.

An open house and barbecue will follow, from noon to 3 p.m.

“There will be games, door prizes and Ronald McDonald will be there,” she said.

Reagan said people are invited to attend the party regardless of whether they participate in the previous events. She said the open house is a chance to thank the community.

“We would not exist if it wasn’t for the community’s support,” she said.

The house also hopes, Reagan said, to increase visibility and get people interested in volunteering.

Reagan said the house began as a desire of area businesspeople to establish a home away from home for parents who have children in the hospital.

“We are a self-sustaining organization and we depend on the community; we are not owned by McDonald’s or anyone else,” she said.

Lansing City Councilmember Kris Nicholoff said the house has provided a true sense of community giving and comfort.

“There are a lot of people of need that come from all over and this community has welcomed them with open arms,” he said.

Nicholoff said the house sends a real message when he passes by it.

“I think there is a sense of community, it is a sense of togetherness, it is a home,” he said.

Bauer said the house reflects the giving spirit of Lansing residents.

“The house shows that the people of Lansing have big hearts and are willing to help others in a time of need,” she said.

To register for the 5K fun run or walk, call 485-9303.