The Chattanooga Ronald McDonald House, a 26 bedroom facility, serves as a “home away from home” each year for approximately 500 families with critically ill or injured children undergoing inpatient and outpatient treatment at nearby Chattanooga hospitals and cancer patients being treated in Children’s Hospital Hematology/Oncology Clinic.
The Chattanooga Ronald McDonald provides families with hot meals, laundry facilities and a place to rest. It has the benefits of a house, such as a play room, library and kitchen. It has the responsibilities of a house, allowing families to take pride in the establishment by taking part in daily chores and helping volunteers with projects.
More importantly, Ronald McDonald House provides an environment of emotional support from staff members, volunteers and other families who are going through similar circumstances.
Who Is Eligible?
The families of patients aged 0–21 are eligible for the services provided by RMHC. Eligibility is based on the severity of the patient’s condition and how far the family travels to receive medical treatment. Critically-ill patients and cancer patients are given priority. One room per family is provided unless the parents are divorced. Families are asked to make a $10 donation per night or do a household chore to help contribute to the operating needs.
Services Provided
Ronald McDonald House is a 26 bedroom facility equipped with the following: Private bedroom and bath, television, telephone, clock radio and answering machine, laundry facilities and supplies, iron, family kitchen on each floor, main “Help Yourself” Kitchen where a prepared evening meal is served daily, living areas, playroom and playground for children and a teen room with internet access.
What to Bring
Families may bring clothes, favorite pillow, toy, etc., medicine, and food for special diet.
Parking
Parking is complimentary in the parking lot adjacent to the Ronald McDonald House. Parking in the hospital garage is subject to the fees established by the hospital.