The Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House has supported more than 15,000 families since opening in 1996
When families travel to Johnson City, TN seeking treatment programs for cancer and other pediatric illnesses or emergency interventions, they will find a home away from home and a strong circle of support in our House. Thanks to our incredible donor base, we offer an array of services and programs tailored to meet the needs of every family member.
At RMHSA, we make sure that a kid gets to be a kid first, and a patient second
Families come from over 40 counties located throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, and Western North Carolina, covering a 125-mile radius. Our house is nestled in a scenic wooded area across from Niswonger Children’s Hospital and St. Jude’s Cancer Clinic, making it convenient for parents to be near their child when medical emergencies or care is needed.
We provide comfort, care, safety, and support
We strive to make the House a warm and friendly home away from home where our guests cannot only rest and renew their spirits, but can also have the opportunity to meet other families who are experiencing similar issues. Parents draw additional comfort and support knowing they are not alone, and sharing our home with other families and their children often creates lifelong bonds.
Our House is open 24/7-365 days each year to families throughout the region
Our House is available to a family with a child, aged 21 years or younger, who is receiving medical treatment at any area hospital. Each month, over 20 illnesses will bring a family to our door, including but not limited to prematurity, cancer, respiratory issues, various surgeries, & emergency care. In addition to private spaces, a family can expect to find a fully stocked and functioning kitchen, a laundry area with needed supplies, indoor playrooms, and a fenced outdoor play space.
Families come from more than 5 states and 40 counties, travelling hours to receive care
Many families travel to the hospital overnight, without the opportunity to pack or plan ahead. More than half our families live in Southwest Virginia, and families come from North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, and more. Families throughout the country are protected from extra worry knowing they have a home that is walking distance from the hospital, making it easy to spend time with their child and feel supported in their time of need.
There is no cost to stay with us, and families may be referred by a nurse or social worker in the hospital
The Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House has 10 bedrooms to serve families. Each room is supplied with linens, toiletry items and comforting space to feel at home. The House also includes a fully stocked kitchen, laundry facility, two playrooms and a reading room, as well a large dining area, living room and several common areas equipped with TVs. We are not a hotel, and no one is ever turned away for inability to contribute.
