Give families with sick or injured children what they need most – each other.
Give families with sick or injured children what they need most – each other.
When a child is in the hospital, families don’t just visit, family stays. And we stay with them.
For the past 26 years, Ronald McDonald House South & Central Australia has been dedicated to creating a “home away from home” for children and families who have to travel to Adelaide for medical care. As a reputable independent nonprofit organisation, Ronald McDonald House has deep roots in the community. We are the only organisation that provides safe, free accommodation to all regional families visiting the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
We are more than a place to stay. Ronald McDonald House Programs surround families with the care and resources they need – food and meals, transport services, learning and tutoring programs, counselling for families to help them cope with the stress and emotional toll of having a sick child, and supplies for in hospital. These services are vital for families who are often far away from their support network and are struggling with the financial burden of medical treatment.
The impact that Ronald McDonald House South & Central Australia has had on the lives of families is immeasurable.
“Places like this keep families together – and this is what we treasured most!!! Our family will forever be grateful for our time here. We left with our hearts full, memories banked for life and a deep, enduring gratitude for the kindness that carried us through one of the most challenging seasons of our lives.”
Cilati, Mother who stayed at our Adelaide House in 2025
At Ronald McDonald House South & Central Australia, we’re committed to ensuring every regional family has access to our essential services and programs when they need it most.
Families need us – and we need you. With your support, together we can serve more families.
Our Ronald McDonald House in Adelaide allows families from regional South Australian, Northern Territory, Broken Hill and afar with a sick or injured child requiring medical treatment at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital a home away from home with accommodation and support 24/7, 365 days a year.
Our Hospitality carts provide essential items and comfort to families with sick children in hospital. By offering free food, drinks, and toiletries directly to parents at their child’s bedside, these carts reduce stress and create a more supportive environment.
When your child falls ill and requires complex medical treatment far from home, attending school is often not a possibility. The Ronald McDonald Learning Program supports students with one-to-one tutoring, helping kids keep on track and make the return to school less stressful.
This program is offered in partnership with Adelaide University to provide psychological support for families, children, and young people receiving services through Ronald McDonald House.