01 Jul Florida Businesses Can Convert State Taxes into Comfort for Sick Children Starting July 1
July 1, 2026 — Florida corporations, beverage distributors, and insurers can now transform their state tax liability into a lifeline for families with critically ill children. The Home Away From Home Tax Credit allows businesses to redirect 100% of their eligible Florida tax obligations to Ronald McDonald House Charities® of South Florida (RMHC South Florida) to fund the construction and operation of the new Griffin Family Campus, which will nearly double the charity’s current lodging capacity.
Businesses that pay Florida corporate income tax, insurance premium tax, or excise taxes on liquor, wine, or malt beverages can participate in the Home Away From Home Tax Program. Corporate leaders are encouraged to apply early via the online portal to secure their allocation, as the Florida Department of Revenue approves these tax credits on a first-come, first-served basis under a $13 million annual statewide cap.
Every tax contribution directed to RMHC South Florida will fund the 54-suite Griffin Family Campus currently rising on the Jackson Memorial Medical Campus. Set to open in 2027, the new facility will ensure that hundreds of additional families have a warm bed, hot meals, and a supportive community just steps from their child’s hospital.
“For Florida’s business community, this program is a true game changer,” said Carlos X. Ramos, RMHC South Florida Board Member and Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Banking at Amerant Bank. “It allows businesses to give back in the most financially efficient way by redirecting money they already owe the state directly into Miami’s medical infrastructure. Securing these credits is a win-win for corporate interests and, most importantly, the brave families fighting pediatric illnesses.”
The tax program was spearheaded by Senator Alexis Calatayud, whose personal experiences inspired her to bring it to life. “As someone whose family personally received care at Jackson Memorial Hospital during my sibling’s childhood cancer, I understand the value of comfort for families in their most difficult times,” said Senator Calatayud. “It is an absolute joy to ensure that the state can contribute to building a world-class facility for South Florida families and families from around the world. They are not alone. With these investments, we ensure we can expand the physical footprint and the legacy of caring for the most vulnerable in our community.”
The tax program includes a provision allowing participating businesses that cannot use the full tax credit in a given tax year to carry forward the unused portion for up to 10 years. Through the program, businesses can also access exclusive corporate naming opportunities at the new facility, including private family suites, communal spaces, and dedicated program areas.
Businesses that secure their tax credit allocations will join an elite coalition of community champions supporting RMHC South Florida’s critical expansion, including philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin, the University of Miami, BADIA, and Sunshine Gasoline Distributors.
To learn more about the program, access step-by-step application instructions, or schedule an advisory call with the RMHC South Florida executive team, please visit rmhcsouthflorida.org/capital-campaign-corporate-tax-credit-program.