Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho

I am writing this from the Saint Luke’s PICU in Boise where I am sitting next to my daughter who cannot breathe on her own and has not been conscious for almost 24 hours. We were offered a place to shower and sleep at the Ronald McDonald House. The social worker had to go through a questionnaire with us. I am a felon so of course automatically denied in one of the hardest times of our lives. The fact that I am also a business owner, that I give back to my community and all of that was irrelevant. It saddens me that I will always be discriminated against due to choices I have made in the past. Thank you Ronald McDonald House for making one of the hardest times in our families lives harder today because of your discriminatory policies. If you knew me and the good things I do with my life now you might be saddened by your choice to close your door on me today. I hope this review helps someone up high in your organization consider fighting for policy change because I am a person just like you with a heart and feelings.

I can’t even begin to describe the blessing this place is. Upon arrival we were greeted warmly with a staff member who was extremely patient even when my kiddo took a while to pick a toy, was patient with my husband and I’s excitement and awe. Four kitchens, an outdoor play area as well as a playroom and an arcade/ game room. A courtyard AND a dining area with luxurious high chairs (jealous because these were NICE). Accommodations are overly generous and then they say just ask if you need anything else. The only thing missing is a free horse ride! This place has EVERYTHING and yes, it really does feel like a home away from home. Have a baby? They’ll have a pack and play and a diaper genie. Free feminine products EVERYWHERE, which may seem small but is so amazing. Oh, and security? Amazing! I feel so safe here! Also it comes with a laundry room! Home cooked meals, endless snack and drink, free items if you’re in need. Carts you can use to bring your stuff inside, strollers you can borrow…libraries and even a little wardrobe if your kiddo needs clothes. On top of it all? If you can’t pay, you aren’t forced to. It’s run by donations from the community. This place makes me want to cry with how amazing it is!!!

We are forever grateful for yall making us feel like we had a home to come to after long hospital days!!

My husband and I stayed here unexpectedly while our daughter was in the NICU just after I gave birth to her back in November. They’re very warm, welcoming, accommodating, respect your privacy. Matter of fact, it was as nice as staying at a really nice hotel but free. Very heartwarming. We couldn’t say enough positive about our experience. It’s a wonderful place to stay and I couldn’t have asked for better accommodations during such a scary and difficult time. 🥰

Ronald McDonald House is an amazing place, full of beautiful and compassionate workers and volunteers. We spent 13 days there while our daughter was hospitalized in the NICU, and it truly felt like a home to us during that time. They provided us with housing within walking distance of the hospital, laundry facilities, food, and—most importantly—endless fresh cupcakes and cookies almost every day. Thank you for making us feel that all our needs were met during this complicated period. We are endlessly appreciative.