Ronald McDonald House Supports NICU Families with Hospitality Cart

Smiles and applause filled the room as Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston (RMHC) hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the launch of its Hospitality Cart program at Texas Children’s Medical Center location.

The program builds on the strong partnership RMHC continues to foster with Texas Children’s. In addition to RMHC’s well-equipped and cozy family lounges, which include temporary bedrooms for overnight stays and are steps from our NICU, the Hospitality Cart further strengthens efforts to make our hospital feel like a true home away from home.

Also known as the “Happy Wheels Cart,” RMHC’s program provides support and comfort to anxious families while their critically ill newborns receive treatment in the hospital’s NICU. The mobile cart is stocked with essential items, including toiletries, snacks and beverages that cheer up even the most overwhelmed parents, caregivers or siblings.

With every turn of its wheels, the cart, pushed by devoted volunteers, carries more than helpful and delicious items. The cart brings warmth and kindness to families during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Director of Community Engagement Julie Griffith shared her enthusiasm for the Hospitality Cart program. “We’re incredibly proud to launch the Ronald McDonald House of Greater Houston Hospitality Cart at our Medical Center location,” Julie said. “With the program already thriving in Austin, we’re excited to expand an initiative that brings comfort and care directly to families. The program is a beautiful way to live out both Texas Children’s and Ronald McDonald House of Greater Houston’s missions of family-centered care and giving volunteers the chance to share in that meaningful impact.”

How You Can Volunteer

RMHC is always looking for enthusiastic community members to volunteer for its Hospitality Cart program and other initiatives. The organization’s volunteers make a difference in the lives of families at Texas Children’s who are in need of a friendly face and a helping hand during a challenging time. Click here to learn how you can volunteer for the organization.