TWELVE months on from the opening of the doors of Orange’s Ronald McDonald House, the figures that reflect the catchment area of families who need to stay at the house while their children are being treated show just how essential the house is for families in need - particularly those who have a child who requires urgent mental health treatment.
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Without exception, everyone who has visited or needed to stay in the house since it opened its doors a year ago has sung the praises of its wonderful homely atmosphere and of the dedicated volunteers who are on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week roster.
The Orange Ronald McDonald House was 10 years in the planning and the fundraising process has been a formidable task.
With the house now running with the contribution of volunteers from the local community, it is gratifying to see that the word is now spreading to communities all over the state after families return home and begin their own fundraising, or help to set up local committees for Orange’s Ronald McDonald House.
No family is asked to pay for their room, and indeed it would be impossible for many families to do so, which is why prior to the opening of the house it was not uncommon for hospital staff to hear families were sleeping in their cars while their children were being treated at Orange Health Service.
The Orange-based events committee is continually focused on ensuring there is a continuous flow of funds to keep the doors open and hold everything from garage sales to gala balls, as well as being supported by generous donors.
Orange’s Ronald McDonald House services three quarters of the state and covers five health districts, which is also reflected in the 12-month figures showing how far some families have travelled to seek the expert care and attention available at Orange Health Service.
From the ladies who knit warm hats and scarves for visiting children to the volunteers on duty overnight, the success of Ronald McDonald House shows this is a community who really cares.