Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House?

A: he Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House is a program of the Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc. The House provides a temporary “home-away-from-home” for children and families of seriously ill children receiving medical care in any local hospital.

The House, a ten-bedroom facility, with a common kitchen, playrooms/ sitting rooms and laundry areas shared by all families. The House offers families the opportunity to maintain some kind of “normalcy” during a time of crisis; and it, also, offers an opportunity for families to move out of the hospital setting and join with others who may be experiencing similar situations.

Q: Who can use the House?

A: Children and immediate family members of children receiving medical care in any local hospital. Priority is given to children and families who live 50 miles are more from the city limits of Johnson City.

Q: How much does it cost to stay at the House?

A: There is no charge to stay at any Ronald McDonald House. The Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House requests a $10.00 nightly contribution to help defray costs. However, no one is ever turned away because of the inability to contribute.

Q: What if I need to stay at the House?

A: Referrals are made by hospital social workers/nurses/physicians after a child is admitted to the hospital of choice.

Q: What do I need to bring with me to stay at the House?

A: Linens are provided and many of the everyday necessities. Breakfast and lunch foods are available for families to prepare at their leisure. Many nights a hot meal is provided by a church/civic/school group at 6:00 pm. We do not provide all needs but try to accommodate the families within reason.