Ronald Mcdonald House Charities of Jacksonville

In 2023, 1,440 families from 22 states and 10 countries stayed at rmhc of Jacksonville. Our families enjoyed the services of private and secure accommodations and nutritious meals prepared by our in -House chef and dedicated volunteers. 29,200 individual meals were served, and the families had access to a fully stocked pantry that provided them with daily snacks and grab & go breakfast items. Our health and wellness program supports the daily health of our families through nutritious meals which is designed to reduce the stress our families face. Our community of compassionate care is anchored by our experienced guest relations staff dedicated to the well-being of our families. They are also supported by all staff and volunteers who strive to welcome every family engaging them on a daily basis and making rmhc of Jacksonville their comforting and temporary "home away from home". Our inclusive community of families support one another and forge relationships that strengthen their resolve. Our family stays are further supported with a fitness center, theatre room, rooftop garden, a nondenominational room of contemplation, coffee bar areas, playrooms, laundry rooms stocked with essential supplies, playroom and educational space known as the kidzone learning center. Our kidzone has become a favorite of our children and parents alike. It is a joyous place of learning and exploration created, managed and run by our staff and volunteers, many who have spent their careers in education. Exciting themes and curriculums with crafts and learning greet the children, where they can forget about their illness and enjoy being a child. Giant legos abound and children's art is masterfully displayed. Our volunteers are an integral part of the rmhc of Jacksonville mission. 464 volunteers served over 1,440 families inside rmh and provided 11,351 hours of service to the mission in 2023.these dedicated volunteers meet and greet our families with care and compassion. They can be found warmly welcoming guest families and visitors at the front desk, housewarming in our kitchens, helping prepare meals, doing maintenance work throughout the House, helping to support our events, as well as leading crafts and games and volunteering daily in our kidzone learning center. Groups of volunteers often create events for our children like birthday parties, seasonal craft events, karaoke or superhero and princess nights. A seasonal favorite is always a visit from the Jacksonville jaguars who cook breakfast or host a holiday event. Our local Mcdonald's owner/operators also visit several times a year to cook up everyone's favorite Mcdonald's biscuits, egg, and sausage sandwiches. Most importantly, our volunteers help to make our families feel at home and lend a compassionate ear during a very challenging time.