Putting Families at the Heart of Care

When a child needs medical care, the whole family needs support. Hospitals care for patients; we care for the whole family. Together with our hospital partners, we complete the circle of care across BC and the Yukon.

Early history of Ronald McDonald House BC showing the founding vision to support families near BC Children's Hospital

Our House

Located at 4567 Heather Street in Vancouver, just 575 steps from BC Children’s Hospital, the House gives families immediate access to the care their child needs.

With 73 private family rooms, shared spaces, and daily support, families have everything they need to stay together during treatment. Children can play and connect, siblings remain part of everyday family life, and parents have space to rest and recharge.

Programs & Services

These programs create a home away from home where families can focus on healing, without the added stress and time demands of daily responsibilities.

A father kneels outdoors with his two young children, one undergoing treatment, at Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon

Family Support

Our team is here for families every step of the way, offering guidance, connection to resources, and caregiver workshops that support the emotional and day-to-day challenges of a child’s medical journey.

Warm, nourishing meals being provided for families at Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon

Food Services Program

Families have access to chef-led meals five days a week, along with freshly baked goods, grab-and-go bags for hospital visits, and daily pantry staples, reducing the burden of food so they can focus on care, connection, and time together.

A young boy plays electronic drums enthusiastically in the music room at Ronald McDonald House BC

Music Therapy

Led by a Registered Music Therapist, music therapy offers one-on-one, family, and group sessions in which families sing, play, and create together, supporting emotional expression, reducing anxiety, and fostering moments of connection, creativity, and joy.

A child and art therapist display a hand-print painting created together at Ronald McDonald House BC's art therapy program

Art Therapy

Guided by a Registered Art Therapist, art therapy offers weekly sessions, open studio time, and creative workshops, supporting children, siblings, and caregivers in expressing emotions, reducing anxiety, and finding moments of connection through art.

Medical play program at Ronald McDonald House BC, helping children process hospital experiences through play

Medical Play

Led by a Certified Child Life Specialist, medical play offers group and one-on-one sessions where children and families explore medical experiences through play, reducing anxiety, building understanding, and helping children feel more comfortable and in control.

Educational support programs for children staying at Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon

Education Program

Led by a Certified Teacher, education programming offers one-on-one and group learning opportunities for all ages, supporting continued learning, connection, and routine through flexible, hands-on activities tailored to each child’s needs and interests.

Family Rooms

Family Rooms are located inside hospitals across British Columbia, offering families a place to rest, recharge, and stay close to their child throughout the day. With sleep rooms comfortable seating, kitchen spaces, laundry access, and essential amenities, families can remain supported and involved in their child’s healthcare.

Ronald McDonald Family Room at Surrey Memorial Hospital in Surrey, BC

Surrey Memorial Hospital

Located on the 2nd floor of the Critical Care Tower of Surrey Memorial Hospital, this quiet, comfortable space gives families a place to take a break, access meals, and recharge between visits.

Ronald McDonald Family Room at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, BC

Royal Inland Hospital

Located on the 3rd floor of Royal Inland Hospital, this space gives families room to step away, connect, and reset during long hospital days.

Ronald McDonald Family Room at University Hospital of Northern BC in Prince George

University Hospital of Northern BC

Located on the 2nd floor of the Pediatrics Wing at University Hospital of Northern BC, this space offers families a place to rest and spend time together close to care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Families with a child under the age of 19 receiving medical care at BC Children’s Hospital or nearby facilities may be eligible to stay. Families must live at least 50km outside Metro Vancouver.  Referrals are typically made through hospital staff or social workers.

New families are referred to the House by their child’s healthcare team. If you think you may be eligible, speak with your hospital social worker or care provider.

Returning Families are welcome to make a self-referral by calling our Front Desk at (604) 736 2957.

Families are asked to contribute a small $12 nightly fee; no family is ever turned away due to financial barriers.

Length of stay depends on a child’s treatment plan and room availability. Some families stay for a few days, while others may stay for several months.

Families have access to private rooms, shared kitchens, meals, shared grocery staples, laundry facilities, play spaces, fitness facilities, and wellness programs designed to support daily life.

Yes. Keeping families together is central to what we do, and siblings are welcome to stay whenever possible.

Family Rooms are spaces located inside hospitals across BC where families can rest, recharge, and stay close to their child during treatment. Learn more about how Family Rooms support families during their hospital stay.

Families are encouraged to bring personal items to help make their stay more comfortable. Essentials are available on-site, and staff can help guide you with what’s needed.

We have a limited number of underground parking stalls available to families who do not have access to free parking through the hospital. We offer one stall per family if a spot is available at check-in

Our team is here to help. Please Contact Us directly if you have questions or need support.

Stories of Staying Together

Every family’s journey is different, but each one shows what becomes possible when families stay together. These stories reflect how connection, care, and a sense of normalcy help families face each day with strength and resilience.

Need Support?

We’re here to help you understand your options and guide you through the next steps. Connect with our team to learn more about staying at the House or accessing Family Rooms.

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