Stay With Us
Families are stronger when they are together.
The CNY Ronald McDonald House allows families to access specialized medical care at Syracuse-area hospitals and affiliated clinics by providing a nearby place to stay at no cost. By staying at the House, parents can better communicate with their child’s medical team, keep up with complicated treatment plans and focus on the health of their child.
All guest families must receive a certified referral from a hospital social worker or doctor’s staff at one of our partner health care facilities in order to stay at the CNY Ronald McDonald House. Prior to arrival, an approved criminal background check is required for any individual (18 years and older) applying for temporary residence.
The referral is not a reservation. Because we must manage our occupancy around the uncertainty of illness and medical treatment, we may experience sudden, unpredictable room shortages. For that reason, you are required to call our office at 315-476-1027, 24 hours in advance of your planned arrival time to check that space is still available. At that time your room will be confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to stay?
- Parents/guardians, siblings and essential caregivers who are involved with the daily support of a pediatric patient up to age 19 who is receiving inpatient or outpatient medical treatment at area health care facilities.
- Women with high-risk pregnancies who travel to Syracuse for specialized prenatal care
- Children receiving new outpatient treatments that require special hygiene and safety protocols
- Caregivers of pediatric patients with handicap-accessible and medical needs who require an elevator and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms
What are the eligibility requirements?
All guest families must receive a certified referral from a hospital social worker or doctor’s staff at one of our partner health care facilities. Arrangements must be made in advance; your medical representative should call our office at (315) 476-1027 as far in advance of your stay as possible. There may be additional circumstances that determine your eligibility, which may be discussed at the time of your referral.
Additional requirements include:
- Guests must live at least 25 miles from Syracuse
- Prior to arrival, an approved criminal background check is required for any individual (18 years and older) applying for temporary residence
- Anyone over the age of 18 must have a valid photo ID
- One private bedroom per family
What medical facilities do you serve?
We are a continuum of care for the major Central New York care networks including Crouse Health, St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center and Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, and their affiliated clinics.
How much does it cost to stay?
There is no charge for guest families to stay at the CNY Ronald McDonald House.
Are meals provided?
Home-cooked meals are provided through our “Meals That Heal” program. Our kitchen and pantry are fully stocked too so guests can always prepare their own meals, or grab on-the-go snacks as they wish.
How can I get to and from the hospital?
We are within walking distance (0.5 miles) of Crouse Health and Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital. Shuttle vans also accommodate Crouse Health and Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital families.
Public transportation is available to St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center.
Is parking available?
Parking is available on-site and is free for our guest families.