Since it opened in April,  the state-of-the-art Orange house  has hosted 29 families from an area covering 86 per cent of the state. Alarmingly, almost half are accessing Orange Health Service’s  child and adolescent mental health unit.

One mother, who did not want to be named, said the offer of a bed at Ronald McDonald House gave her the comfort and strength to face each day while being close to her teenage son while he battled chronic depression.

“I am a single mother and I was making up a bed in the back of the car when I received a call from Ronald McDonald House offering me accommodation - I cried for 10 minutes,” she said.

“I have been astounded by the kindness of the staff and volunteers who have sat and listened with me while I cried, helped me prepare dinner or made me a cup of tea.

“Ronald McDonald House is so much more than a safe place to stay - it’s a home where tired and exhausted parents can find refuge.”

During the planning stages for Orange’s RMH 10 years ago, the fundraising committee included self-contained rooms designed for families caring for a child receiving mental health treatment. At the time it was considered a bold plan, according to Orange RMH board chair Joanne Lewis.

“Sadly it appears that this is an area of health treatment where there is huge growth,” Mrs Lewis said.

“But in saying that it is enormously satisfying to know that at a time in their lives when things are going so dreadfully for families we can offer some comfort, support and a  home away from home.”

NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner toured Orange’s Ronald McDonald House on Monday.

Ms Skinner said the comprehensive specialist care offered at Orange for children and adolescents with mental health problems, backed by the nearby Ronald McDonald House, made Orange an appropriate choice for parents seeking help.

“It is a lifesaver in many instances,” Ms Skinner said.

Mrs Lewis said some families had already stayed more than two months at the house to be close to their children.

janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au