A new Ronald McDonald House is now fully operational, boosting the number of rooms for regional families with sick kids by 50.
Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson officially opened the House at St Catherine’s College in Crawley, which has been gradually welcoming families since April, saying it would provide a “home away from home” for families seeking treatment in Perth.
The facility is one of three Ronald McDonald Houses in the city, along with one at Perth Children’s Hospital and another at King Edwards Memorial Hospital.
The charity has long-term plans to expand the PCH site by 100 rooms.
Ronald McDonald House Charities WA chief executive Peter King said the opening was a “milestone” in realising the organisations of goal of ensuring “no family that needs us is turned away”.
“It means more regional families can stay together and be supported with wraparound services, while they’re going through some of the most difficult times of their lives,” he said.
Mr King said the charity was focused on creating a “home-like environment”, with Gus the dog a key part of it.
Ronald McDonald House was delivered through $9.6 million from the State Government, $6m from the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation and $1.2m from Lotterywest.
Ms Sanderson commended the charity for delivering the 50-room site within two years.
“We are seeing a greater demand for our services at Perth Children’s Hospital as our population grows,” she said.
“So I’m thrilled to be here to open this and I’m thrilled to see how beautifully it’s come up.”