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In a landmark step for family-centered healthcare in India, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) has launched its first Ronald McDonald House in the country. Located in Mahim, Mumbai, the facility offers free, safe, and supportive accommodation to families of children undergoing medical treatment in nearby hospitals.
Inaugurated by Advocate Ashish Shelar, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra, the 3,200 sq. ft. facility includes 16 fully furnished rooms and aims to serve over 500 families annually. The House is situated close to leading pediatric and cancer hospitals, allowing families—especially those traveling from rural areas and neighboring states—easy access to treatment for their children.
“For many families, the cost and stress of finding accommodation in Mumbai is overwhelming,” said Smita Jatia, Chairwoman, Ronald McDonald House India. “This House provides more than a place to stay—it offers a community, a support system, and the comfort of knowing you are not alone on your child’s medical journey.”
Families staying at the House will receive free lodging, meals, hospital transport, emotional support, and access to communal spaces including a kitchen and play areas.
Echoing the importance of the initiative, Minister Shelar said, “This House meets a real and urgent need. I’ve seen families living on footpaths because they couldn’t afford accommodation during their child’s treatment. This initiative brings warmth, dignity, and much-needed support to such families.”
The new facility builds on RMHC’s presence in India, where it already operates Family Rooms at BJ Wadia Hospital in Mumbai and the Government Cancer Hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Since 2016, these spaces have supported thousands of families.
Looking ahead, Ronald McDonald House India plans to open five Houses and three additional Family Rooms across five cities by 2030, significantly expanding its impact.
Part of a global network present in 62 countries, RMHC’s mission remains rooted in a simple but powerful belief: Families heal better together.
