More Than a Place to Stay
The Seattle Ronald McDonald House provides housing to families who are going through a difficult time while caring for a seriously ill child receiving treatment at Seattle Children’s. In 2011, we provided almost 28,000 nights of housing to nearly 700 families.
These families come to us from throughout the Northwest, Alaska and beyond. Most arrive with their lives having suddenly been turned upside down, filled with fear, confusion and uncertainty. Most can’t afford housing,
And that’s where the House comes in, providing these families with a home filled with community, support – and hope.
The House
Our House is not a hotel, motel or hospice, but truly a home-away-from-home. Here, families find a haven away from the tensions of the hospital and gain support from others who are going through similar experiences.
The House is actually three separate buildings. In two of the buildings, families have their own private rooms, sharing communal living areas, kitchens, a pantry, dining areas, laundry, computer rooms, playrooms, a home theater, workout room, teen room and library. Spaces are available for our families to gather and share concerns; others allow them to be alone, to read a book or watch television. In our bone marrow transplant apartments, each unit is self-sufficient with a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, living area, washer and dryer.
Our 24-hour staff provides assistance to our families and manages daily operations. Housekeeping is led by staff and supported by residents and volunteers.
Cost
We ask families to contribute $25 per night when they stay with us but many are unable to afford this. Thanks to support from the community, no one is ever turned away because of financial reasons.
The actual cost of operating a room is more than $108 a night, which is why financial donations, along with donations of time and goods are so important to keeping our House open.