Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston provides temporary lodging for families of children undergoing medical treatment, offering a cozy, homelike setting and comfort and support so that parents can focus on what matters most: the health of their child.
RMHC Charleston is on track to serve more than 800 families this year, according to Marketing Director Rachel Morrison. But the need is even greater. The organization had to turn away more than 550 families due to lack of space, necessitating a capital campaign to fund an expansion of the House. With additional space, they could serve more people.
RMHC Charleston opened in 1983 as a 12-bedroom house. In 2006, it doubled in size to 24 bedrooms. Since then, subsequent expansions – working within the existing square footage – have increased that number to 32.
Families can stay as long as they need to, but “We are full every single night,” said Morrison. Families are not required to pay for anything while at the House: accommodations, food and toiletries all are covered by community donations. The House features a living room with couches and a TV, a full kitchen and dining area, two laundry facilities, a computer area and a kids’ playroom.
Although there are 390 RMHC Houses globally, including 185 in the United States, Morrison noted that 100% of the proceeds donated to this House stay local. Lowcountry McDonald’s owners account for 10% of RMHC Charleston donations, while the other 90% comes from community fundraising. “It is the Charleston community that is keeping the House moving forward,” Morrison explained.
These contributions help families like Laura and John Winter, whose son Walker was born on April 15, 2023, with Down syndrome. Walker suffered medical complications and underwent open heart surgery. During this anxious time, they stayed with RMHC Charleston. The Winters reflected on their experience: “In those dark days, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston was our beacon of light. They offered us a warm, welcoming place to rest, shower and enjoy hot meals, just steps from the hospital. This support allowed us to focus entirely on Walker’s recovery without the added stress of where we would sleep or eat.”
Most families come from South Carolina, but RMHC Charleston has served those from all 50 states and 16 countries. The expansion will allow the organization to serve more local families.
Since families are staying longer, RMHC Charleston is looking to add more bedrooms to the existing House and eliminate some of the smaller rooms to further improve guests’ comfort level. The new building will have space to allow for larger bedrooms and private bathrooms. It will also include three separate age-appropriate play areas and a business center for parents who work remotely. “The goal is to be this ‘Home-away-from-home,”’ stated Morrison.
The Medical University of South Carolina donated the land where RMHC Charleston plans to expand. Renderings have been approved and construction could start this year.
You can get involved in helping RMHC Charleston through volunteering, donating or giving wish list items. Volunteers cook breakfast and dinner daily for families. RMHC Charleston also posts a weekly wish list for the community to donate kitchen and personal items and household and office supplies.
For more information, visit rmhcharleston.org.
By Colin McCandless
