Mackay Base Hospital Ronald McDonald family room tenders open
There’s a chance to be part of history as one of Mackay’s favourite charities prepares for the construction phase. Read how to apply during the tender process.
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The call is out to be part of history as Mackay’s Ronald McDonald Family Room moves a step closer to opening in 2022.
Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia is appealing to the community to help reach its fundraising targets, as tenders open to build the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital.
Chief executive officer Tamara South has urged locals not to miss the opportunity to be part of this milestone as the charity moves towards the construction phase.
“We are excited to be one step closer to establishing the Mackay Ronald McDonald Family Room, with the support of our partners at Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Mackay Hospital Foundation and of course the local community,” she said.
“Every day there are families from Mackay and surrounds who are enduring long days in hospital with an ill or injured child.
“By becoming a Founding Partner of the Mackay Ronald McDonald Family Room, you will be helping to provide comfort and support to these families when they need it most.”
Ms South said there were many ways organisations, groups and individuals could pledge their support.
“Whether it’s a fundraising event, donation, contribution to the capital campaign or signing on to volunteer your time, you will be making a difference for thousands of local children and their families every year.”
Mackay Hospital and Health Service chief executive Lisa Davies Jones said the family room would be a welcome addition to Mackay Base Hospital’s Child and Adolescent Unit and Special Care Nursery for families of children undergoing medical treatment.
“Hospital stays can be a daunting and exhausting experience for our youngest patients and their families,” she said.
“The Family Room will offer a relaxing area to both local and out-of-town families who wish to take a meal break, use showers to freshen up or simply a space to relax away from hospital wards.
“We currently have more than 15 families who travel long distances each month for their children to attend appointments and undergo treatment at Mackay Base Hospital.
“These families in particular can feel quite displaced so we want the family room to provide a sense of calm and normalcy while they’re away from home.
“Mackay Hospital and Health Service is overwhelmed by the support from the community and of course RMHC North Australia and we extend a heartfelt thank you for co-ordinating the community fundraising campaign and helping to make this project possible.”
The Ronald McDonald Family Room will be a home-like space run by volunteers, including a fully-stocked kitchen, showers, laundry facilities and relaxation and play spaces.
Tenders close on October 8, 2021, with opening of the Ronald McDonald Family Room planned for 2022.
To pledge your support or become a volunteer, visit https://bit.ly/MackayFamilyRoom or Google ‘Mackay Ronald McDonald Family Room’.
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