Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can stay at the Ronald McDonald House?

Families of seriously ill or injured children who are receiving treatment in a Northeastern Pennsylvania medical facility.

2. How do I get a room at the House?

A social worker or medical staff member at the facility where the child is being treated must make the referral directly to the RMH. All adults staying in the House must present current photo identification at check-in. We cannot guarantee placement until the day of need, but we will place families on a waiting list if the House is at full occupancy. Ronald McDonald House of Scranton reserves the right to verify the child’s treatment with the medical service provider.

3. How much does it cost?

The Ronald McDonald House of Scranton does not charge a room fee. Lodging is free of charge with the emphasis on providing the most comfortable atmosphere possible. Donation envelopes are available if families chose to donate after their family member has been discharged from the hospital.

4. What are the hours of the Ronald McDonald House?

House office hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM. The House is accessible to families 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

5. How big is the Ronald McDonald House?

The Ronald McDonald House can accommodate 8 families each night in private suites. The House also includes a fully operational kitchen, laundry facilities, and lounge area.

6. Are meals provided?

The kitchen is fully stocked and families are encouraged to use it as they would their own kitchens. Volunteers and volunteer groups provide at least one meal a day for families, which usually occurs at dinner time.

7. What if I don’t have a way to get to the hospital where my child is staying?

Ronald McDonald House of Scranton provides transport service to and from area medical hospitals/facilities with our House Transport Van.

8. How long do families stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton?

In most cases a family may stay as long as the child is undergoing treatment at an area medical facility.

9. Who can use the Ronald McDonald Family Room?

In most cases a family who has a child being treated for a serious illness or injury at the medical facility where the Family Room is located.  Visit our Family Room page to learn more.

10. How much does it cost to use the Ronald McDonald Family Room?

There is no charge for the Family Room. Families can sit, enjoy a snack or drink, watch TV, talk with other parents or our Family Room volunteers, all free of charge.

11. What is the relationship between McDonald’s and the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton?

While McDonald’s Corporation is a partner in care, the Ronald McDonald House is neither owned nor fully funded by McDonald’s. Local McDonald’s owner/operators and their customers provide approximately fifteen percent of our operating budget. Several owner/operators and McDonald’s corporate employees volunteer as members of our Board or serve as guest services or meal volunteers. McDonald’s customers show their support by donating change in the restaurant donation canisters.

12. How is the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton funded?

The Ronald McDonald House of Scranton is solely operated with funds raised through donations made by individuals, organizations, and corporations in the communities we serve.

13. How can I support the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton?

By donating and volunteering. We could not operate without generous donations from our community. Our volunteers are the heart and soul of the House – and the reason we accomplish so much with such a small staff.