Bringing families together, here as well

When a child is ill and needs hospital care, there is only one thing parents and child truly want: to be as close to each other as possible. A hug, a comforting word or a bedtime story can make all the difference. For many families, constantly travelling back and forth is simply not feasible. 

The Ronald McDonald House offers a warm and supportive solution.

Since 2019, parents and families have been able to stay at the House, located within walking distance of UZ Brussels in Jette. Since its opening, more than 600 families have already stayed there. The House provides a welcoming homely place where families with a hospitalised child can stay for as long as needed, with brothers and sisters welcome too. While parents remain close to their child, volunteers are there to offer a listening ear and help create a calm, safe environment where families can take a moment to catch their breath.

That care does not stop at the hospital door. Through the holiday homes of the Ronald McDonald Children’s Fund, families with an ill child are also given the opportunity to spend quality time together after an intense period. At the Ronald McDonald Cottages in Vielsalm and De Haan, families can enjoy peace, togetherness and a well‑deserved break, away from everyday worries.

As the Ronald McDonald House and the holiday homes do not receive public funding, they rely entirely on the support of donors, sponsors and volunteers. McDonald’s Belgium and its franchisees have actively supported this cause for many years and continue to do so. In addition, funds are raised through ordering kiosks and donation boxes in our restaurants. This allows everyone to contribute in a simple way and help keep families close together.

More information about the Ronald McDonald House, how it works and how you can help can be found on the website of the Ronald McDonald Children’s Fund: www.kinderfonds.be