Heart Carts
Bringing comfort directly to families with hospitalized children, our Heart Carts travel through pediatric and neonatal units in Central Texas hospitals. Volunteers stock and deliver essential items, snacks, meals, toys, toiletries, and more to support parents as they focus on their child’s care.
Austin Heart Carts
Locations: Dell Children’s Medical Center, Dell Children’s Medical Center North Campus, St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, Texas Children’s Hospital North Austin Campus
Access: Located inside hospitals with weekly access for families in the NICU
Heart Carts Items: Snacks, meals, drinks, toiletries, toys, coloring books, and comfort items
Bryan-College Station Heart Carts
Locations: Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – College Station, St. Joseph Health College Station Hospital, St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital
Access: Located inside hospitals with weekly access for families in pediatric and neonatal units
Heart Carts Items: Snacks, meals, drinks, toiletries, toys, coloring books, and comfort items
Inside Our Ronald McDonald Family Rooms
Lounge Areas
Living room and kitchenette spaces for families.
Nourishing Snacks
Every day snacks for families at our partner hospitals.
On Site Laundry
Private laundry area available for your use at any time.
Private Bedrooms
Private bedrooms for each family during of their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Families receiving care at a Central Texas hospital with a Ronald McDonald Family Room may qualify for a stay if the patient is 21 years or younger and receiving medically necessary care at the hospital. Speak with your social worker to determine eligibility and request a referral.
All adult guests must pass a background check, and individuals with open CPS cases are not eligible for a stay. Minor parents must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Limited exceptions may be considered for families experiencing unstable housing situations. Ronald McDonald House Central Texas does not provide transitional housing.
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Families have access to a private room, snacks, a kitchenette, laundry facilities, and common areas for rest and support. Staff will provide full details prior to arrival.
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There is no required cost to stay. Families may be asked to make a suggested donation, but no family is turned away due to inability to pay.
Family Room Sponsors
To learn more about becoming a sponsor, please reach out to our Development Team, development@rmhc-ctx.org
