In a landmark initiative aimed at providing comfort and support to families of children undergoing medical treatment, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines officially opened its very first Ronald McDonald Family Room at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC).
The Ronald McDonald Family Room is the first global core program of RMHC Global, headquartered in Chicago, that RMHC Philippines adopted, which aims to provide a home-like environment within a hospital where families can stay close to their loved ones.
The establishment of the Ronald McDonald Family Room in PCMC is also a demonstration of collaboration and compassion that underpins RMHC’s mission of care, comfort and hope to families in need. With the support of the local government of Quezon City, the Department of Health (DoH), and global and local partners, RMHC Philippines continues to champion children’s welfare by creating programs and spaces that nurture families, alleviate burdens, and ensure children receive the care and attention they need to thrive.
Partners and government officials graced the event, including DoH Secretary Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa represented by Asec. Farwa Hombre, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte represented by Atty Rene Grapilon, Assistant City Administrator for General Affairs, and PCMC Executive Director, Dr. Sonia B. Gonzalez.Representatives from RMHC Global were also present, such as Mr. Rodney Jordan, Chief Operating Officer and Ms. Rachel Go, Associate Director, Field Operations – Asia. McDonald’s Philippines executives, who were instrumental in making the project come to fruition, were also present, namely, Ms. Margot Torres, Managing Director and RMHC Board Member, Ms. Marie Angeles, Executive Director of RMHC Philippines, and Ms. Adi Timbol-Hernandez, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations and Impact and RMHC Philippines Vice President.
The Family Room, located on a 120-square-meter lot with a floor area of 93.5 square meters, is designed to be a temporary sanctuary for families of patients at the PCMC. It features a reception area equipped with a handwashing station to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases. Families can unwind in the lounge, equipped with comfortable sofas and a television, or enjoy the kids’ play area. They can also make use of the dedicated breastfeeding room with a diaper-changing station and a pantry featuring a sink and dining area, designed to foster interaction and mutual support among families. The facility also includes a PWD-friendly common toilet, ensuring accessibility for all guests. Hot and cold water, along with snacks and beverages, are provided for visiting families.
Staffed by trained personnel and volunteers, the Family Room operates entirely through donations and volunteer efforts, allowing families to access its amenities free of charge. It is available to all families of PCMC outpatients under 18 years old. Watchers must secure an endorsement from the Medical Social Worker, who will assess and recommend eligible families for access to the Family Room.Established in 1996, RMHC—McDonald’s charity of choice—is part of a global organization operating in 64 countries, dedicated to bringing care, comfort, and hope to children and families in need.
Over 29 years, RMHC Philippines has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Filipinos through its impactful programs. These include disaster and crisis relief through McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen, education through the Read to Learn program, and safe spaces for children and families with initiatives like Bahay Bulilit and the newly launched Family Room.
McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen
Since 2020, this program has served one million hot meals to families in need across the country, providing vital support during challenging times.
Ronald McDonald Read to Learn Program
In collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd), this initiative teaches beginning reading skills to Grade 1 and 2 students in public elementary schools. To date, it has benefitted over 13 million Filipino students in 11,610 schools nationwide since its launch in 2002.
Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit
In partnership with local governments and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), this program offers children aged 2 to 4 a safe space to learn and play while their parents are at work.“These programs would not have been possible without the collaboration of our partners, donors, and volunteers,” added Ms. Hernandez.
“Together, we are building a future where families have the strength and support they need to face life’s most difficult moments.”
.
