Ronald McDonald House India Opens First Facility in Mumbai, Supporting Families of Hospitalized Children

For over five decades, the Ronald McDonald House charity has lived by a powerful conviction: no family should face their child’s medical journey alone. Operating across 62 countries, the organisation has created safe, comforting havens for millions of families navigating the emotional and physical challenges of pediatric illness. Now, this impactful mission reaches a historic milestone in India with the opening of the first Ronald McDonald House in Mumbai.

Inauguration Marks a New Chapter in Family Support in Maharashtra

The state-of-the-art Ronald McDonald House Mumbai was officially inaugurated by Advocate Ashish Shelar, Minister for Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries such as Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Dr. Kailash Sharma, Dean Projects, Academic, Tata Memorial Hospital, and Smita Jatia, Chairwoman, Ronald McDonald House India.

Smita Jatia expressed her heartfelt sentiments during the inauguration, stating,

“This is truly a historic moment… When a child is ill, the entire family needs support. This house provides a nurturing environment where families can find respite, share experiences, and build a network of care.”

A Home Away From Home: Comfort and Care for Families in Need

Situated in Mahim (West), Mumbai, close to premier pediatric hospitals, the 3,200 sq. ft. facility is thoughtfully designed to support families traveling from all over Maharashtra and neighboring states. The House offers:

• 16 fully furnished private rooms, providing privacy and comfort for families.

• Ability to accommodate more than 500 families annually.

• Complimentary accommodation and nutritious meals, alleviating financial burdens.

• Hospital transport services, ensuring ease of travel for medical visits.

• 24/7 dedicated staff support and counselling, offering emotional and practical assistance.

• Communal spaces such as a kitchen, children’s play areas, and family connection zones to foster a supportive community atmosphere.

Voices from the Heart: Real Impact for Families

The opening of the Ronald McDonald House addresses a critical gap in Mumbai’s healthcare support infrastructure. Advocate Ashish Shelar shared,

“We have seen many parents who block their space on the footpath by putting their belongings there, since there is no choice. This Ronald McDonald House is fulfilling this demand with magnanimity of heart and genuine kindness.”

One parent whose child is undergoing treatment expressed relief, saying,

“A facility like this House means we no longer have to worry about the basics. We can finally give all our energy and attention to our child’s healing.”

Supporting Healing Through Proximity and Community

The Ronald McDonald House model is grounded in the belief that proximity to medical care and a supportive community significantly aids a child’s recovery. By providing families with safe, affordable accommodation near hospitals, the House helps alleviate stress related to lodging, meals, and transportation.

This proximity allows parents to:

• Stay close to their hospitalized child.

• Maintain daily routines.

• Build bonds with other families experiencing similar challenges.

• Access counselling and emotional support services.

Research from global Ronald McDonald Houses has shown that these factors contribute to better health outcomes and overall well-being for both children and their families.

A Bright Future for Pediatric Family Support in India

The launch of the Ronald McDonald House Mumbai sets an inspiring precedent for expanding family-centered healthcare support across India. It is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and corporate social responsibility coming together to create meaningful change.

With Mumbai’s House now welcoming families, the hope is to extend this life-changing model to other cities, ensuring that no family faces the daunting journey of childhood illness alone.