Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ronald McDonald House of Durham?

It is a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill or injured children who come to the Triangle for treatment at area hospitals.

What does the Ronald McDonald House do for families?

In addition to finding safe and comfortable accommodations and a caring environment, families find a strong support system, establishing friendships with other families facing similar anxieties, hardships, and uncertainties.

Who can stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham?

Families of pediatric patients, including moms, dads and siblings, are able to stay at the House. Seriously ill children receiving medical treatment at area hospitals often stay at the House as well.

Who uses the services of Ronald McDonald House of Durham?

Families who need the House come from everywhere – North Carolina, across the country and across the globe. Families come to Durham because of the level of renowned medical care and cutting-edge treatments available at Duke Children’s Hospital. Local families are able to experience the benefits of the program at the Ronald McDonald House Family Room located on the pediatric floor at Duke. Learn more about the Family Room.

What does a family staying at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham receive?

In addition to private rooms, families also receive access to a fully stocked pantry, evening meals, transportation to and from the hospital, family activities and a support system to help them through a very challenging time.

How much does it cost a family to stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham?

While no family is ever turned away due to inability to pay, a nightly fee of $10 is requested for each room ($15 for a transplant suite). The actual cost of operating each room per night is $103.99. Donations from the community help to cover the services offered to the families.

How is McDonald’s involved with the Ronald McDonald House of Durham?

Ronald McDonald House Charities and the McDonald’s Corporation (owner/operators, employees, customers and vendors) financially support all four Houses in North Carolina. 10% of the annual budget at Ronald McDonald House of Durham is received through the support of McDonald’s and its Charities. They also support new construction and expansion projects such as the Ronald McDonald House of Durham Capital Campaign to build a new House. Learn more about The Newest Chapter.

How does Ronald McDonald House of Durham serve over 700 families a year at the House and over 800 visits to the Family Room each month?

Volunteers contribute over 5,000 hours a year of their time and talent to make the program run smoothly. Support received from volunteers ranges from gardening, providing meals and coordinating special events to house maintenance. Learn how to become a volunteer.

Donors contribute financially to the success of the house through monetary donations, in-kind donations, and pop tab recycling donations.