‘No family should face their child’s medical journey alone’. This powerful belief has driven Ronald McDonald House, for five decades, to create havens for millions of families across 62 countries. Today, this commitment reaches a historic milestone in India with the opening of its first House in Mumbai.
Inauguration and leadership
The Ronald McDonald House was inaugurated by Advocate Ashish Shelar, Minister for Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra, in the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Dr Kailash Sharma, Dean Projects, Academic, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and Smita Jatia, Chairwoman, Ronald McDonald House India.
A home away from home
This state-of-the-art home is set to support families traveling from across Maharashtra and neighboring states. Strategically located in Mahim (West), close to leading paediatric hospitals, the 3,200 sq. ft. facility features 16 fully furnished private rooms and can support more than 500 families annually.
Families receive complimentary accommodation, nutritious meals, hospital transport, counselling, and 24/7 staff support, alongside communal amenities like a kitchen, play areas, and connection spaces.
Voices from the heart
Smita Jatia, Chairwoman, Ronald McDonald House India, shared, “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.”
Community impact
Advocate Ashish Shelar, Minister for IT, said, “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.”
Alleviating challenges for families
For families traveling long distances, finding safe, affordable accommodation in Mumbai is overwhelming. One parent shared, “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
The Ronald McDonald House model eases the burden of accommodation, meals, and transportation, allowing parents to stay close, maintain routines, and build support networks with other families on similar journeys. Global studies show such proximity significantly contributes to a child’s recovery.
