Holistic Programs & Support

Pivotal care and comfort when and where it's needed most

Child smiling at a fruit and vegetables delivery for their family, part of the Families on the Move program by Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney

Over the past four decades, Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney has grown our support beyond critical accommodation for families travelling long distances for paediatric hospital treatment.

We have seen how a child’s illness can devastate a family financially, psychologically, and emotionally. So, as well as essential practical and physical support, our holistic programs aim to strengthen each family’s overall wellbeing throughout their journey.

As well as our ever-evolving support to families who aren’t living at the House, in the form of services like our Hospitality Carts, the Ronald McDonald Learning Program, and Day Pass we provide a range of programs for in-house families to strengthen their ability to cope.

Mental health support

The stress and uncertainty of having a seriously ill or injured child takes a huge toll on every member of the families’ mental health and wellbeing.

To support families staying at the House we have partnered with Catholic Care who visit weekly to provide one-on-one, financial, or family counselling for adults.

Regular yoga sessions are held in-house for both children and parents.

Parents who have, or are staying with us, can also access the Take a Breath program developed by the team at The Royal Children’s Hospital, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. This online support group and therapy program aims to help parents manage stress and learn strategies to deal with overwhelming emotions that come with navigating a child’s health challenges.

Children enjoying a yoga session as part of family activities at Ronald McDonald House in Westmead
Families enjoying a painting workshop as part of activities planned for families at Ronald McDonald House in Westmead

Psychosocial support

Families staying with us are usually a long way from their friends and support network.

Our Mission Experience Team run activities throughout the year for parents and children to enjoy, making memories together and connecting with other families.

Themed or cultural in-house celebrations, pamper days, and family fun activities such as Movie Nights and painting workshops boost their spirits and give moments of joy.

Nutritional support

We have a range of programs in-house which provide nutritional support to our families. These include Meals from the Heart, digital resources, and cooking workshops.

For families who have stayed at our Westmead House for more than 45 days, our Families on the Move program delivers a food hamper filled with fresh fruits and vegetables within days of their return home.

This program aims to ease their transition back home by delivering essentials to their doorstep, alleviating financial stress and some of the burden of tending to a sick child and adjusting to a new routine.

Child smiling at a fruit and vegetables delivery for their family, part of the Families on the Move program by Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney

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.