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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
The Ronald McDonald House provides a temporary “home away from home” for families of pediatric patients (age 21 and under) being treated at the UVM Golisano Children’s Hospital. Families who reside outside of Chittenden County, have a valid photo ID, and who successfully pass a background check are eligible to stay. High-risk pregnancy mothers who need to stay near the hospital are also eligible to stay. All referrals must be made by the family’s case manager or social worker at the hospital.
Our staff and volunteers are here to ensure that guest families are as comfortable as possible. Each guest family is provided with a bedroom and private bathroom (bed and bath linens included). Laundry facilities, a fully equipped kitchen, free parking, and home cooked meals each evening are all included. Breakfast foods, snacks, coffee, tea, bottled water and “to-go” lunches are provided. We are staffed 24/7. Hospital grade breast pumps are available for nursing mothers.

The House has 8 private guest rooms and is spacious and comfortable. There are common areas with TV, a dining room, play areas for children (indoors and outdoors), a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable lounges, laundry facilities, free wi-fi, and free parking. Our certified therapy dog, Mike, is hypo-allergenic and adds a gentle presence to the House.

All reservations must be made by a hospital representative. If you are interested in staying at the Ronald McDonald House, please speak to your hospital case manager or social worker for a referral.
Families are not asked to pay anything to stay here. We do require a $25 security deposit for the room key, which is refundable upon checkout.
We have a waiting list and coordinate with the hospital to get families in as soon as space opens up in the House.
Families may occupy a room for up to 30 consecutive days. After 30 days, if families continue to meet the eligibility requirements, an extended stay may be requested.
Day and overnight visitors must have a valid photo ID. Any overnight visitors must pass a criminal background check and are responsible for the $2.00 cost associated with that screening.
Yes, we provide a delicious home cooked meal every evening. In addition, we offer an array of breakfast foods, homemade baked goods, fruit, snacks, coffee, tea, cocoa and bottled water 24/7. “Grab and Go” lunches are offered most days as well, for families to take with them to the hospital. Guests may store food items in our communal refrigerator or in the refrigerator located in their room.
Ronald McDonald House Vermont does not provide transportation for guests. However, we are located just one mile from the hospital, and the city public bus route is located right on our corner. Families may also speak with their case manager at the hospital regarding transportation options.
We do not provide childcare services. All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Yes, we have a strict no smoking or vaping policy.
Yes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtewFJJ-J5Y&t=1s
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