A mother and father weep silently as their child is rushed into surgery. This family is in their most vulnerable state mentally and financially as they try to cope with the crisis. Even if the surgery is a success, they wonder, how can we afford an apartment close enough to the hospital to spend time with our kid? Fortunately, the Ronald McDonald House supports families just like these in times of need.
“I love it. I think that’s wonderful,” English teacher Don Kroeller Jr. said.
The Ronald McDonald House strives to provide families with free housing in times of need and includes volunteers who cook meals and make the family feel at home. These homes, close to the hospital, allow parents to visit their kid for more hours of the day.
The organization’s beliefs, plastered on the Ronald McDonald website’s front page, read, “We believe that ‘home’ is more than four walls and a roof over your head. That’s why every Ronald McDonald House is a haven for families with children in the hospital. It provides all the comforts of home, plus the compassion of staff, volunteers, and other families — all just steps away from the hospital.” These beliefs highlight the organization’s goal to help members of our community in their darkest hours.
The Ronald McDonald House, using its Norfolk location, has made a difference locally by providing assistance to members of our Ocean Lakes community. “I know someone personally at Ocean Lakes who has received aid,” said Kroeller.
As a non-profit organization, the charity requires support to continue its mission of helping families in our community. Please consider supporting Ronald McDonald House by donating or volunteering and cooking a meal for a family in need.
