Being away from home with a seriously ill or injured child is difficult and stressful for families. The cost of hotel rooms, long commutes, lengthy hospital stays, and being away from family and friends in a strange place takes an enormous emotional and financial toll on families in crises. That’s where we come in.
The 16,000-square-foot, sixteen-bedroom Ronald McDonald House provides a comfortable environment where families can rest, enjoy home-cooked meals, relax in the spacious living areas, access laundry facilities, and, most importantly, receive a network of support among other families struggling with similar worries and fears. This stability allows families to focus on being there for their child when it matters most.
We understand that being away from home and perhaps unable to work can take a financial toll on families, particularly those dealing with a child’s medical crisis. Therefore, we do not charge families to stay with us! Any donation amount is greatly appreciated but not mandatory. As a starting point, a donation of $35/night is welcomed, it does conservatively cost, however, $89/per family per night to operate the House program,
The Ronald McDonald House is open to serve families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Staying At The House
Any family with a child 21 years of age or younger being treated at an area medical facility is eligible to stay at our House. All families must be referred by a healthcare professional involved in the patient’s care. Because of the large room requests, the Ronald McDonald House in Columbia, SC, cannot accept reservations. If a room is unavailable at the time of the referral, the family will be placed on a waiting list and called as soon as a room becomes available.
If you are a doctor, nurse, or social worker, please complete a room request application. If you have any questions, please email Kristin Schwartz, Director of House Operations, at [email protected].