When families walk into a Ronald McDonald Family Room, we want them to forget they’re in a hospital. Often steps away from a pediatric or intensive care unit, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms offer families a place to rest and regroup right at the hospital, just moments away from their sick child.
A statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the effects of family presence during a child’s hospital stay. Both children and parents showed lower levels of stress.
Our Family Rooms at three Delaware hospitals provide support for families so that they can be with their children.
Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children
The Family Resource Center is a partnership between Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children and the Ronald McDonald House. The Center includes:
- Showers
- Kitchen withLaundry machines
- Free coffee
- Vending machines
- Computers
- Wi-fi
- Telephones, fax machine and copier
- Library
The Family Resource Center is also home to three Sleep Rooms which provide overnight accommodations for a parent.
Christiana Care
The Ronald McDonald Family Room is located in the Special Care Nursery at Christiana Care. At this room, families can rest, watch television, and have a cup of coffee. There is also a play area for siblings to watch movies, play games and read books. Volunteers are able to provide child care for siblings if needed.
The Room has televisions, computers, wi-fi, and a charging station. Additionally, the Ronald McDonald House coordinates monthly dinners.
Bayhealth Medical Center
The Family Room at Kent General Hospital is a special place for families with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It includes a kitchenette, playroom and waiting area.
All of our Ronald McDonald Family Rooms are open 24/7. Volunteers staff the rooms during the day, and we rely on donations to stock the rooms. To find out more about volunteering with the Family Room program, please contact Sara Funaiock at s.funaiock@rmhde.org or (302) 428-540.