What is Ronald McDonald House? 

Ronald McDonald House is a non-profit that provides discounted or free housing for families whose child is in the hospital. Often these families have to travel from far distances and cannot afford to stay in a hotel or other lodging long-term. Ronald McDonald House offers them a comfortable, home-like space close to the hospital. The Ronald McDonald House DC is located in Brookland a few blocks from CUA. There is also a Ronald McDonald Family Room within Children's Hospital that is a clean, quiet, comfortable space for the Ronald McDonald House residents to rest and relax while they are visiting their child in the hospital. Students can volunteer at either or both locations. 

How Volunteers Help

Volunteer Option 1: Ronald McDonald House Dinner Dates

Ronald McDonald House is a nationwide nonprofit that provides housing and other resources for families whose children at in the hospital. Volunteers go to Ronald McDonald House in Brookland once a month to cook dinner for the residents.

Dates/Times/Transportation

Dates: 9/27; 10/11; 10/25; 11/8, 11/15

Volunteer Option 2: Ronald McDonald Family Room at Children's Hospital

Students can volunteer in the Family Room at Children's Hospital when their schedule allows. Here they help clean and maintain the family room while having a chance to sometimes talk with the residents. They must attend an info session, fill out an application and additional paperwork, and do an interview with Ronald McDonald Family Room staff. 

Times/Transportation

Times depend on student schedule. Minimum requirement of two shifts per month with evening and weekend shifts available, while weekly shift availability is preferred. The schedule will be coordinated at the beginning of the semester.

Metro provides bus transportation to Children's National Medical Center.

Contact Information

Important Dates

5K Fundraisers: 10/16 and 11/5

Paperwork/Requirements

Sign up on the Nest!

About Ronald McDonald Family Room

The Ronald McDonald Family Room is located on the Hematology/Oncology Unit at Children's National Medical Center. It is a comfortable homelike space for parents and other caregivers. Visitors to the room can make a cup of coffee, reheat food, do laundry, check email, or have a quiet conversation and still be just steps from their child.

Learn More:
Ronald McDonald House, DC
3727 14th St., NE
Washington, DC 20017
(202) 529-8204