Background
What is Ronald McDonald House?
Ronald McDonald House provides temporary accommodation for the families of seriously ill children.
Two key philosophies underpin the House:
- Children respond better to treatment when their families are close.
- The families staying in the House are a great source of mutual care and support for each other.
Where did it all begin?
The first House was opened in Philadelphia in 1974, largely through the efforts of father and Philadelphia Eagles footballer, Fred Hill when his daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia. Read more on the History page.
Where is Ronald McDonald House?
The current House is at 38 Riddiford Street, Newtown, across the road from Wellington Hospital and a short walk from the children's ward. The new House will be at 30-34 Riddiford Street.
Where are the families from?
Most of the families come from Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, Wanganui, Manawatu, Horowhenua, Wairarapa, Nelson and Marlborough.
What does it cost to stay at the House?
It costs the families nothing to stay at the House. The Trust understands that families are already under significant stress without the additional worry of finding the money to pay for their accommodation.
What are the criteria for staying at the House?
The House is open to all families from outside of Wellington with children aged 21 and under who are being treated at Wellington Hospital.
What facilities does the current House offer?
Familes have their own private bedroom and bathroom, and they share the communal kitchen, laundry, dining room, lounges and play areas.
The House also includes a self-contained, two-bedroom apartment for larger families, families who stay for a long period of time, families of children who have compromised immune systems, or families who are dealing with the grief of a poor prognosis.
Is there any help for local families?
Yes. The Ronald McDonald House Family Room at Wellington Hospital is for local families who don't need accommodation at the House.
This room is a haven where parents can escape the stresses of the hospital ward, relax, freshen up, have a snack or even do laundry – all while being close by. It's open 7 days a week from 10am – 10pm and is free of charge.
Why is it called Ronald McDonald House?
When McDonald's fundraised for the first House, the committee suggested that the House be called Ronald McDonald House because children think of Ronald McDonald as a fun, happy character. The idea is to make the child feel reassured that their family is staying in a fun, happy place that's close by.
Why McDonald's?
McDonald's is a founding partner of the first House that opened in Philadelphia in 1974. Read more on the About Us page.
Who operates Ronald McDonald House Wellington?
Ronald McDonald House is a registered charitable trust run by a board of Trustees, a small number of paid staff and lots of volunteers.