On May 10, 1985, the Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut opened its doors as the only RMH in Connecticut. Twenty five years and thousands of families later, we find our 12 guest rooms filled to capacity with different faces, but the same basic needs. The House is the critical link that brings together specialized medical treatment and the children and families who desperately need it. By providing housing for these families, RMH-CT makes it possible for children from around the state, the country, and the globe to access specialized and life-saving treatment not available in their local communities. Through a communal living environment, RMH-CT also nurtures the development of child-to-child and parent-to-parent support systems that are crucial to the well being of families during this critical time
Priority for housing at RMH-CT is given to families of severely ill children (up to age 21) receiving treatment at local Connecticut-based hospitals, either as inpatients or outpatients. The most common medical issues that bring children and their families to RMH-CT include childhood cancer, liver transplantation, and premature birth. Each family is issued one room to accommodate a maximum of five persons. We believe families should stay together during the difficult experience of a child's illness; therefore, siblings are welcome to stay along with their family members. Children and their families live at RMH-CT for weeks, months, or even longer when necessary.