The Ronald McDonald House Charities Maryland, Inc. (RMHCMD) is for use by families of pediatric patients who are undergoing medical treatment for illness or injuries at a nearby medical facility. In keeping with the American Academy of Pediatrics, Ronald McDonald House Charities Maryland, Inc. defines “pediatric patient” as those age 21 and younger. Any patient, regardless of age, can never stay without a caregiver who is over the age of 21. For safety reasons, patients can never be left alone in the House or ride the RMHC shuttle alone.

Eligibility – The priority criteria for eligibility has been implemented because many times the House cannot meet the demand for services and has a waiting list for rooms.  The priority criteria is as follows:

1. First Priority
   • Oncology families
   • Transplant families (children awaiting a transplant)
   • Shock Trauma
2. Second Priority
   • Any ICU (NICU, PICU, etc.)
   • Fetal Therapy Families
3. Third Priority
   • All other families

Within each priority, preference is given to the family that lives the farthest from the House

Distance policy for Oncology and Shock Trauma Families: Oncology and Shock Trauma families have no distance requirement.  Based on communication with referring hospitals, these families need to be minutes away from the hospital.  Therefore, any mileage requirement is waived for those families.  Distance policy for all other families: All other families must live at least 30 miles from RMHC.

Patients need to have 3 appointments per week or be in-patient. If you have a follow-up appointment you may also qualify to stay so, please call us at 410-528-1010, ext. 108 for more information. Accommodation at RMHC is provided for parents/guardians, siblings or essential caregivers who will be directly involved with the daily support of the pediatric patient.

Families need to have a permanent address to return to after discharge or end of treatment.  In addition, everyone 18 years of age and older must present a valid photo ID at check-in.

RMHC conducts a formal criminal history background check on all individuals applying for temporary residence at RMHC. The safety of all Ronald McDonald House families is very important to us. Please speak with Susan Salt at 410-528-1010, ext. 103 if anyone planning to stay with your family has a restraining order or “no contact” order.  The House reserves the right to refuse admittance to any potential resident or guest with a criminal conviction.  RMHC does not admit anyone with a criminal felony conviction that may threaten the health, safety, welfare, and ability of other individuals to peacefully enjoy the House (e.g., violent crimes, domestic violence, child abuse, sex offenses, illegal drug activity, burglary and/or theft).  RMHC also will not admit any individual who provides false, incomplete, or misleading responses during the formal criminal history background check.  RMHC also reserves the right to expel a guest for any other inappropriate, irresponsible, or criminal behavior that takes place while temporarily residing at the House.