Ronald McDonald House Charities Experience

I tried to imagine what it would be like to have a child who was critically ill, and in the midst of hospital visits and blood tests and fear of the unknown, to still have to provide food for my other children. What if I lived far away from the hospital and had to deal with the added stress of commuting or finding a nearby place to stay? I hope I never have to experience what that feels like for real. But it’s good to know that there’s a place like the Ronald McDonald House that provides meals and an affordable place to stay for families of seriously ill children.

Ronald McDonald Houses are located in close proximity to children’s hospitals across the U.S. and around the world. Most families travel from far away to hospitals that specialize in medical treatments for their children. A minimal donation is requested from each family however, families who can’t afford to pay will not be turned down. Unfortunately the need is great, and there aren’t always enough rooms to accommodate all of the families so families have to be put on a waiting list pending availability. In some cases, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) does have an arrangement with nearby hotels who charge a reduced rate to families who are unable to get into the program. When the first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia, PA, only families of oncology patients were eligible to stay, but this has since been expanded to include families of seriously ill children who are receiving medical treatment.

When I entered the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House, I was greeted by a décor featuring a warm assortment of colors. The building’s interior was adorned with homey earth tones from the paint and pictures on the walls to the furniture and décor. It’s obvious that a lot of thought went into the design. Guest rooms were clean and comfortable and there were cozy “common areas” throughout the building where families could either sit and talk or watch television. This particular facility also has a wing for children who are in isolation in the time leading up to or in the 100 days following an organ transplant.

The oversized kitchen is equipped with everything imaginable. The pantry and refrigerator are stocked with dried and perishable products, giving guests the option of preparing their own meals if they desire. Trays and baskets of food donations and snacks cover the counters. Families are given bins for the refrigerator and pantry in which they can store their personal food items. In addition, volunteers come in daily to either prepare or deliver fresh meals for lunch and dinner. Anyone can be a volunteer, so if you or your organization ever want to donate time for a good cause, I’m sure RMHC would love to have you. The facility also has a laundry room equipped with washers and dryers where families can do their own laundry.

In addition to the Ronald McDonald House, RMHC sponsors 34 Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles in the U.S. and in six other countries. These Care Mobiles provide free medical care and dental services such as immunizations, x-rays, cleaning, sealants and extractions for families with low or no insurance.

RMHC provides a valuable service and I think McDonald’s should do more to promote it.