In these situations, meals can represent comfort, financial relief and, as Eliza writes below, a reminder that their family is not alone during unimaginably difficult times.
Alby’s story
“Our world was turned upside down when our sweet Alby was diagnosed with leukaemia at just 20 months old. Life quickly became a whirlwind of hospital stays, treatments, and uncertainty. We had to leave our home, uproot our family, and focus entirely on getting Alby through this. With two other young children in tow (Alby’s older sister Callie, 3, and younger brother Hugh, 2.5 weeks old at the time), it’s been incredibly challenging but also a time filled with strength, love, and support from places like Ronald McDonald House, which has really become our home away from home.
A lifeline for Alby’s family
The meal programs at Ronald McDonald House are a lifeline for our family during a pretty tough time in our lives. After long days at the hospital, having a warm, home-cooked meal waiting for us means more than we can express. It gives us one less thing to worry about and reminds us that we aren’t alone – that there is a whole community supporting us.
Ronald McDonald House became our safe haven – a place we could stay together as a family, just minutes from the hospital. It gives us stability, comfort, and community at a time when everything feels uncertain.
From the warm meals to the kind staff and volunteers, every part of the House reminds us that we aren’t alone in this journey.
To the incredible supporters of Ronald McDonald House – thank you. Your generosity gives our family more than just a place to stay; it gives us comfort, dignity and togetherness during the most difficult chapter of our lives.
When our little boy Alby was diagnosed with leukaemia, life as we knew it changed instantly. But your support means we don’t have to face it alone. You give us a place to stay, warm meals and a community of care, just minutes from the hospital. Most importantly, you help our young family stay together during the hardest days of our lives.
“We are endlessly grateful for the comfort, strength, and hope your generosity brings.”
Eliza, mum of two-year-old Alby
Donate a meal to help us support more families
Last year, Ronald McDonald House Greater Western Sydney provided over 33,000 meals and snacks for families with sick children. This year, we’re committed to increasing this number to support even more families with sick children.
Not only are we aiming to ensure we provide at least one nourishing meal a day to the 1,200+ families who stay at our Westmead House each year, but also thousands more.
We now also offer free meals to families with a child receiving treatment at The Children’s Hospital Westmead who are not staying at the House.
You can support this service by donating a meal to Ronald McDonald House’s Meal Appeal. Each donation helps provide:
Emotional Support
For a parent who hasn’t had time to cook or eat, a ready meal can feel like a lifeline – a sign that someone sees their struggle and cares.
A Moment of Normalcy
A warm, familiar meal can restore a small sense of normal life. It’s a reminder of home and stability in a time when everything feels uncertain.
Reduced Financial Burden
Hospital stays often mean one or both parents missing work. The free meals we offer at Ronald McDonald House ease some of that pressure.
Energy and Focus
Families often skip meals or settle for unhealthy, fast options due to stress or lack of time. A nourshiing meal helps them stay strong – physically and mentally so they can better support their child.
A Chance to Bond
Shared meals offer rare moments of togetherness. Whether it’s with other families staying at Ronald McDonald House or sitting together as a family, coming together over food allows families to pause, talk, and just be together.