When a family brings a seriously ill child to the hospital for treatment, they typically like to stay by the bed­side as much as possible. In addition to anxiety about the child’s recovery, affordable accommodations, hot meals and transportation top their concerns.

The collaboration between Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and Ron­ald McDonald House has made much needed temporary residence for these families possible. A larger, more con­veniently located Ronald McDonald House, which recently opened about a half mile from the hospital on Fayette Street, is providing even more com­fort. The iconic 26-foot red heart that glows at night from the rooftop serves as a welcoming beacon.

Since the original Baltimore loca­tion opened on Lexington Street in 1982, the facility has helped over 40,000 families from all 50 states and over 22 countries. Johns Hopkins Children’s Center refers about three-quarters of the guests who stay there. The new 60,000-square-foot, homey space features 54 rooms, includ­ing suites for extended stays, and a playground, a game room, a serenity room and an outdoor fireplace on the roof. The facility relies on a small staff and thousands of volunteers each year for its round-the-clock op­erations. A shut­tle transports families to and from the hospi­tal.

Paula Heneberry, director of pediatric and Gyn/Ob social work, has worked at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center for 14 years. She shares how the Ronald McDonald House supports patients:

Q: How does the Ronald Mc­Donald House help families?

A: The Ronald McDonald House benefits families in ways that are profoundly beyond the face value of temporary lodging. Parents can take a break from the hospital room for a nap, a shower, a meal, and be only minutes away. Parents may socialize with other parents of sick children in a homelike setting and receive much needed natural and informal support. Siblings of children in the hospital remain connected to their parents and do not need to stay at home with babysitters.

Q: How are families able to af­ford to stay at the Ronald Mc­Donald House?

A: The Ronald McDonald House is affordable. The cost is a fraction of a hotel room — only $15 a night. The operational cost of the rooms is $50 to $100 a night, so a large portion of this is covered. Parents are often provided meals and parking is free at the Ronald McDonald House, which offsets the many other expenses when away from home. The staff at the Ronald McDon­ald House provides love and support to families who are dealing with much worry and stress.

Q: What is your role in this partnership between Ronald McDonald House and The Johns Hopkins Hospital?

A: Social workers refer families to the Ronald McDonald House and partner with the Ronald McDonald House staff to support families when unex­pected or highly distressing situations occur.

Q: Why has Johns Hopkins worked so closely with the Ron­ald McDonald House?

A: The Johns Hopkins Hospital un­derstands that a supported and rested parent is a more engaged health care partner. We want to contribute to pro­grams that take care of families, so that families can focus on the health care needs of their children. This collabora­tion lightens the burdens of families going through serious pediatric medi­cal treatment.

To learn more about accommoda­tions Johns Hopkins provides, and the Ronald McDonald House, go to: bit.ly/childrenscenteraccommodations.