McGruff House Program

What is a McGruff House?

A McGruff House is a temporary haven for children who find themselves in a frightening or dangerous situation. It might be a house, an apartment, a townhouse, or a mobile home. The program was started in 1982 in Utah and has grown to include at least one program in  48 states. Having a McGruff House program in your neighborhood reflects strong community value in protecting children.

What do McGruff House Program Participants Do?

A McGruff House participant agrees to help children as they go to and from school and play in the neighborhood by:

»    Telephoning appropriate authorities if a child is lost, hurt or frightened or has a medical emergency
»    Reassuring frightened children
»    Reporting crimes and suspicious activities

A McGruff House Participant does not provide first aid (except in life-threatening situations); administer  medications; supervise the neighborhood; enforce laws; provide food, beverages, or toilet facilities; provide transportation; or guarantee safety.