Supporting families just steps away from their children’s bedside
Our Family Room Programs, located at UNMH Children’s Hospital and at Presbyterian Hospital in downtown Albuquerque, offer respite services to families who wish to stay near their children’s bedsides. The Family Rooms are staffed by volunteers and offer quick snacks, beverages, computers, laundry facilities and resource libraries. The Family Room located at Presbyterian Hospital also offers overnight sleeping rooms.
The hospitality cart is stationed outside of the Neonatal Units of Lovelace Women’s Hospital. It is fully stocked with granola bars, crackers, coloring books, puzzles, toiletries and other small comforts. These items are provided to families with an infant in the Neonatal Units at no cost. It is our hope that Katie’s Kart will be a simple reminder to these families that they have a network of supporters quietly working to bring them relief during a challenging time.
To schedule your stay at our Ronald McDonald House®, follow these instructions:
First-time Guests
A social worker must make a referral from the medical facility where your child is being treated. Have them contact our Family Services office at (505) 998-0383 to provide the information needed for your stay.
Returning Guests
If you have stayed with us in the past, you do not need a referral from a social worker. Call us at (505) 998-0383 and we’ll instruct you on how to request your stay.
The House is frequently full, and there is usually a waiting list. As soon as you know you need lodging, it is best to put your name on the waitlist. Staff will give you instructions on how to proceed once your name is on the list. Families are usually placed on a first-come, first-served basis; however, exceptions may be made at the House Manager’s discretion based on extenuating circumstances. House staff will periodically review the status of the patients’ treatment with the hospitals.
Who can stay at the Ronald McDonald House?
Families that have children 21 years of age or younger receiving active medical treatment in Albuquerque, and whose home is outside of Bernalillo County, are eligible to stay with us.
What is the cost of staying at the Ronald McDonald House?
Ronald McDonald House is an approved Medicaid and Centennial Care vendor, so your stay may be covered by them. If not, families are asked to donate $15 a night. Donations can be made by cash, check or credit card. While we request a donation of $15 per night, no family is turned away due to the inability to donate.
What time can I check into the House?
Families can check in at any time as we are a 24/7 facility. We do ask that you call ahead to arrange a time so that the staff person on duty is available to check you in and give you a tour of the facility. Check-in takes about 20 minutes, so plan accordingly.
How many people can stay in the room?
Only one room is allotted to each patient and family. Room occupancy is limited and based on the size of the room available, with the maximum being five people.
A doctor may make referrals well in advance; however, rooms are assigned based on availability that day.