There is no time more difficult than when your child is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness or injury. Ronald McDonald House Charleston is here to help with open doors.
We are currently expanding to serve more families! While construction is underway, you may experience occasional noise, dust, or disruption, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience. If you have any concerns during your stay, please contact our Guest Services Team at House@RonaldMcDonaldHouseCharleston.org or 843-723-7957.
Families of pediatric patients (18 years or younger) who are receiving medical treatment in the Charleston Area and live more than 40 miles away are eligible candidates. We also serve Mothers diagnosed with high-risk pregnancy. Please note that families with an open DSS case are not eligible for residency.
All adults staying in the House must agree to follow the House Conditions-of-Stay Document.
A parent or guardian must always supervise children. Be sure to check with your hospital regarding any age restrictions for visiting siblings to ensure appropriate supervision arrangements.
No family is ever turned away because of an inability to pay. We suggest a donation of $67 per night. We exercise the right to process Medicaid lodging reimbursement for family stays who have active Medicaid coverage. Third-party donations are also accepted.
Yes. A referral from a medical professional is required. Families are encouraged to submit a stay request, and our team will coordinate with the hospital regarding medical necessity and approval requirements.
Yes. Demand for rooms is often high, and we frequently maintain a waiting list.
Rooms are not guaranteed. We strongly encourage families to begin the referral process and join the waiting list as early as possible.
Your child’s nurse, physician, or the hospital information desk can help connect you with your assigned social worker or case manager.
A referral does not guarantee that a room will become available. A referral places the family on the critical waiting list. Room availability is based on occupancy.
We do not accept reservations. Availability depends on current occupancy. You may receive a call 24 to 48 hours before your anticipated arrival date with an update regarding availability. Rooms are confirmed only on the day of arrival. When a room becomes available, a member of our Guest Services team will contact you with check-in instructions.
We require:
There is no curfew. Approved families may come and go using their assigned key fob.
To maintain eligibility, rooms must be actively occupied. Rooms left vacant for more than 36 hours may be reassigned to another family in need. Quiet hours are observed daily from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.
No. Bedding and towels are provided for your stay. Complimentary laundry facilities are also available for guest use.
No. Ronald McDonald House Charleston is located on MUSC’s campus, which is designated as a smoke-free environment. Smoking of any kind is prohibited.
Guest Rooms and Bathrooms
Most guest rooms include two twin beds and access to shared community bathrooms. A limited number of rooms have private bathrooms. Room assignments are based on availability and family needs.
Meals
Breakfast and dinner are provided daily for families staying at the House. Meal schedules are posted near the kitchen.
Laundry Facilities
Complimentary washers and dryers are available for guest use. Families are asked to clean machines after use and follow posted laundry guidelines.
Recreation and Family Spaces
Parking
Ronald McDonald House Charleston does not offer on-site parking. Loading and unloading are available at 81 Gadsden Street.
Transportation
Additional Resources
Families may have access to:
Yes. Please contact Guest Services before arrival regarding service animal requirements. Health documentation and certification information must be approved prior to check-in.
