Services and Support

We can't change a child's diagnosis, but we aim to take care of everything else

When a child is sick, the whole family’s life is turned upside down.

Our support to families with sick and injured children goes beyond essential accommodation; we offer a comprehensive support system designed to ease the impact on the patient, siblings and parents. Our services include nutritious meals, educational support, and holistic programs such as counselling and social connection.

Through the generosity of our supporters, we address the emotional, financial, and psychological challenges families face.

By taking care of the family, we enable families to focus on quality time together and their child’s treatment and well-being.

Family with a sick child supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney

Accommodation

Our 60-room House runs 365 days a year and comes with a range of services and support, but this is just one of our programs. Ongoing financial support from the community is vital to keep our services strong.

Ronald McDonald Family Room

The Ronald McDonald Family Room at The Children's Hospital at Westmead offers a peaceful space for families to rest and care for themselves just moments from their child's bedside.

Hospitality Carts

Our volunteer-run Hospitality Carts at The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Campbelltown Hospital, and Nepean Hospital provide bedside comfort to families of children on the NICU and Children’s Ward.

Day Pass Program

Local families of children receiving treatment at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead can access our comfortable and supportive ground-floor facilities during weekdays. Support includes a daily meal.

Nutritious Meals

Group volunteering programs such as Meals from the Heart, Baking a Difference, and Weekend Cook & Care help ensure we can provide at least one nutritious meal to families every day. This reduces their financial and mental burden.

Learning Program

The Ronald McDonald Learning Program (RMLP) aims to bridge the gap for school-aged students whose education is disrupted due to serious illness or injury. Services include up to 40 hours of one-on-one tutoring.

Education Services

Our in-house Learning Centre is one of the happiest areas of the House for children. Daily programs are designed for patients and siblings to keep kids engaged in learning, creativity, and interacting with peers.

Counselling

In partnership with CatholicCare Social Services, we provide in-house counselling weekly for parents and caregivers to help strengthen their mental well-being, so they are better able to cope with the trauma of childhood illness.

Making Memories

Our Engagement & Learning Team organise events and activities throughout the year such as movie nights, family trivia, yoga, and crafts. It's another way we aim to alleviate stress by coordinating happy moments for our families.

Families on the Move

For longer-term families who have stayed with us at the House, we know there is a period of adjustment when they return home. This program delivers fresh produce to their home, shortly after they return home.

Make a Difference for Families & Children

Parents don’t know when their children will need medical help. But they should know they can always access the care they need. With your help, we can support them throughout their journey.

Families can stay together, close to their sick child, thanks to Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney

Help keep families together this Christmas

For families with sick kids, being home for the holidays isn't always possible, but with your help, they can still be together, supported and surrounded by care.