Hamilton, ON., May 23, 2024 - Mountainview Building Group is proud to announce the completion of renovations to the Games Room at Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario (RMHCSCO). Rocco Colamartini, Commercial Construction Manager at Mountainview Building Group and Joanne Colamartini, Design Manager at Elite Developments, donated their time to this project. They have witnessed firsthand the profound influence of RMHCSCO within the community, as it serves as a vital support system, ensuring families can stay close to their children during difficult times.

A staggering 65% of Canadians live far from a children’s hospital, necessitating travel for specialized care for their children. RMHCSCO recognizes this need and stands as a beacon of hope, offering not just accommodation but a home away from home for these families. With its newly renovated Games Room, families have a space to relax, recharge, and find moments of joy amidst challenging circumstances.

More than 30% of the families who benefit from RMHCSCO's services hail from the Niagara Region, illustrating the organization's wide-reaching impact. Each year, over 2600 families are served at the House and two Family Rooms, extending support across South Central Ontario, from the Niagara Region to Hamilton/Halton, to Brant and Norfolk Country, to Guelph and Kitchener-Waterloo.

RMHCSCO plays a crucial role in alleviating financial burdens for families, as staying close to a sick child can cost up to $38,000 during the first year of treatment, representing 57% of the average disposable family income. By providing accommodation and amenities like a Wellness Room, Fitness Centre, and Family Kitchen, RMHCSCO ensures the well-being of parents and caregivers.

The Lebelle Family, who stayed 181 nights at RMHCSCO while their daughter Mia was being treated in the NICU, attests to the invaluable support provided: "From the moment we walked into the House, it felt like home. Everyone was so friendly and genuine - it helped me in some of my darkest days. Being so close to the hospital and having a place to rest made our journey so much more manageable."

RMHCSCO's impact extends beyond its physical spaces, with two Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in McMaster Children’s Hospital serving as extensions of the House within the hospital itself. With a third Family Room underway in Marotta Family Hospital in St. Catharines, RMHCSCO continues to expand its reach, providing respite for families during their most challenging times.

Today, one in four families in Canada have either stayed with RMHCSCO or know someone who has, highlighting the organization's integral role in supporting families across the country.

For more information about Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario, visit https://www.rmhcsco.ca/

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RMHCSCO is dedicated to providing a home away from home for families with seriously ill children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. With accommodation, amenities, and unwavering support, RMHCSCO ensures families can focus on what matters most – the health and well-being of their children.