Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about staying with us, donating or volunteering? We’re here to help.

Explore our frequently asked questions by topic below. If you still need assistance, please contact the location that is most convenient for you:

Springfield: 217-528-3314

Peoria: 309-401-2525


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Families

Is there a cost to stay?

No. Families are not charged to stay at Ronald McDonald House Central Illinois. Generous community support helps make this possible so families can stay close to their child’s care without the added cost of lodging.

Are staff members present 24 hours a day?

Yes. A staff member is available at the House 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Can grandparents, siblings and other family members stay at the House?

Yes. We believe families are stronger when they can stay together. Every adult aged 18 or older who stays at the House must complete a background check.

Each family receives one private room, which can comfortably accommodate two to four people.

Is there a shuttle from the House to the hospital, or vice versa?

Yes, shuttle transportation is available. Please check with the front desk for the current schedule.

Do you take reservations?

No. Because hospital stays can be unpredictable and room availability is limited, we can't reserve or guarantee a room in advance.

Is there a place for me to store my breast milk?

Yes. Families have access to designated areas for breast milk storage. We also provide individual cooler bags with a lock and key to help protect and safely store your supply.

What if I need to travel back home for something, but my child is still in the hospital?

Families may request a 24-hour pass that allows them to keep their room while they are away. To continue using the room, families are required to stay at least five nights each week. Any exceptions must be approved by House management.

Can I bring my pets?

No, we do not allow pets at this time.  We do allow registered service animals, in accordance with state law.

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Donors

How can I make a donation? 

You can make a gift online using our secure donation form.

Donate

You may also mail a donation to:

Ronald McDonald House Central Illinois
610 N. 7th Street
Springfield, IL 62702

Is my gift tax deductible?

Ronald McDonald House Central Illinois is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our federal tax identification number is 37-1145155.

Contributions may be tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor with questions about your individual gift.

Are there other ways I can donate? 

Yes. Wish List donations help provide everyday essentials and other items that support families while their child receives medical care.

Our current needs may include household supplies, new toys, nonperishable food and other items.

View Our Wish Lists

Can I donate used toys or other used items?

We appreciate you thinking of the families we serve, but we are unable to accept used items due to health and safety guidelines. All donated items must be new.

Do you accept pop tabs?

Yes. Through our Pop Tab Collection Program, our community collects approximately 40 million pop tabs each year, generating about $10,000 to help support our programs and services.

Pop tabs may be dropped off at our Peoria or Springfield locations Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Learn About the Pop Tab Collection Program

What are other ways I can support families?

There are many ways to support Ronald McDonald House Central Illinois beyond making a financial gift. Opportunities include corporate giving, event sponsorships, matching gifts, volunteering, providing a meal, and other ways to get involved.

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Volunteers

I work full time. Are there flexible ways to volunteer?

Yes. There are many ways to get involved depending on your schedule. You can provide a meal through Meals From the Heart, volunteer at special events, organize a Wish List drive, help with projects, and more.

Learn More About Volunteer Opportunities

How can I sign up to provide a meal?

Visit our Meals From the Heart page to view available dates and sign up to provide a meal for families.

View Meals From the Heart

Can children or teens volunteer for service hours?

Yes. Young volunteers can participate in select opportunities with a parent or guardian.

What opportunities are available for regular volunteers?

Program Volunteers can serve regularly and work alongside our team to support families and help create a welcoming, comfortable environment.

Opportunities may include welcoming families, answering phones, receiving donations, maintaining common spaces, assisting with Meals From the Heart, sorting donations, helping with linens, and supporting special projects.

Apply to Volunteer

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