Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida

Truly make you feel at home, this is a 10/10 for me and my family. They truly make sure that you are taken care of throughout your hardest times.

My family and I stayed at the Ronald McDonald Housing Charity in Orlando after my wife gave birth to triplets at 24.4 weeks gestation. Because of their early arrival, we were told they would require a long NICU stay. Although my initial thought was to return home to Panama City Beach, my wife wanted to remain close to our babies, and I honored her request. We were grateful to be offered a room, and for the most part, our time there was pleasant. CJ, one of the managers, was very accommodating, and the overall environment provided us with some comfort during an incredibly stressful time. Unfortunately, our experience was marred by the unprofessional conduct of zoe. While she initially gave me a concise and professional tour of the house, her later interactions revealed a lack of empathy and consistency. On November 11th, we suffered the devastating loss of our youngest triplet. Shortly afterward, my wife was hospitalized and diagnosed with rhinovirus. We responsibly notified the house immediately, as their policies require. Three days later, zoe handed me a package without issue and even offered me pizza in the kitchen. Yet, only minutes later, she abruptly told me we had to vacate the premises immediately. The sudden shift—from offering food to demanding we leave—was confusing and distressing, especially given the emotional burden we were already carrying. Later, she called me with a confrontational tone, stating that if I was seen in common areas or without a mask, we would be “kicked out.” While I understand the importance of protecting families from infectious illnesses, the way this situation was handled lacked compassion and professionalism. Policies should be applied consistently and communicated clearly, not delayed for days and then enforced in a harsh, contradictory manner. Families staying at RMHC are already under immense emotional strain, and staff should demonstrate empathy and understanding rather than disdain. Our overall stay was mostly positive thanks to other staff members, but zoe’s treatment of us left a lasting negative impression. I hope this is not a habitual way of dealing with families, as the mission of RMHC is to provide comfort and support during the most difficult times.

I don’t typically leave negative reviews, especially for an organization meant to support families in crisis, but my experience at this Ronald McDonald House was deeply disappointing and concerning. The ceiling in my room leaked directly onto me for hours while I slept, leaving me drenched. This was unsafe, unsanitary, and completely unacceptable. When I was moved to another room, I was placed next to guests engaging in extremely loud and inappropriate behavior at 6:30 am which added unnecessary stress after an already traumatic night/morning. I also encountered a cockroach outside my room, raising further concerns about cleanliness. To make matters worse, staff mistakenly threw away nearly $50 worth of food I had purchased the night before. Despite acknowledging their mistake, the only resolution offered was a $25 Publix gift card, which did not come close to covering the loss. Given everything that had occurred, I expected a more appropriate response and greater accountability. Given the number of issues I faced, I ultimately felt I had no choice but to leave the facility, even though my baby remains in the hospital. I appreciate the mission of Ronald McDonald House, but the conditions, oversight, and lack of meaningful resolution at this location fell far below what any NICU family should have to experience. I hope these issues are taken seriously and corrected for future families. *If Google allowed video uploads, I would share the footage to show exactly what I experienced.*

Many years ago, Spring of 2019, RMH was used as a beacon of hope during a truly uncertain and traumatic season of our family's life. After birthing my very premature and ill twins, RMH, was right alongside of us near immediately. Juan and Nikki, along with their incredible staff, insured myself, my husband and at the time our four oldest children, they would do whatever was needed to keep our family together. Especially living over two and a half hours away from Winnie Palmer Hospital, we needed a true Level 3/4 experienced NICU. As a family of 6 to now 8, housing us was not easy. RMH made it work with as little discomfort as they could. I lived there for 3 months! My babies desperately needed their Mama close. It was the greatest sacrifice we have ever made as a family. Trauma, though painful, can bring a beauty that goes beyond superficial understanding. It was so challenging at times. I was alone most of those weeks. When I was able to be reunited with my younger children and husband, it was a time of tears and joy. The many activities, books, play room, pirate ship, children focused events from volunteers, helped us greatly. To keep us connected through this trauma. I made some beautiful friendships over those months. Between providing housing, food, a large full working kitchen and fully stocked pantry and fridge (not to mention daily coffee), local organizations and even families volunteer to provide meals and cook fresh hot meals nearly every day. This "home" functions as a church. The book of Acts explains in detail. Not perfect but a true outpouring of genuine love and care for the needs of those right in front of you. Some of you reading this may know what I mean by the biblical comparison. Nowadays, many churches have become so super sized and mega, that the core of the gospel message has been muddled and lost. RMH, for me and my family, truly were salt and light. I reminded them everyday. Praying with the staff, asking for their prayer needs etc. I learned to seize every opportunity to bring the message of hope and love even in my own heartache. My faith in Jesus only deepened. The church we had been actively apart of for years, not once came to visit or sit with me and my babies. That was devastating. I write this to those who are reading my post to show that, even in one of my most darkest times of uncertainty, The Lord still showed up but...in other ways & other people. It helped heal my heart which was in quiet turmoil. In case you are experiencing trauma or inner turmoil from outside her or even those closest to you. God sees you and loves you. I remember how disappointed the staff would feel when they had to turn down a family in need. Due to the house being at full capacity. That is never easy on a staff of genuine caring people. Having 2 houses available within the area allows more families in need to be served. Please consider donating monetarily and in a tangible, physical manner to this organization. It directly impacts the local families and those that come from abroad to seek care from the area hospitals to help give life saving care to their children and loved ones. The Garris Familia will forever keep RMH close in heart ❤️. ( I won't post pics bc we take our privacy seriously. Ty for understanding.)

Just an amazing help in a difficult time in our lives. The staff is friendly and attentive. The volunteers are amazing providing the dinners, just a great place for families that really need it. Our daughter being in a hospital and so far away this place is a blessing from God allowing is a place to stay to be close to her.