As the festive season draws near – a time of family and togetherness – the work done at Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) to create care infrastructure that upholds dignity, nurtures hope, and honours the sacred bond between parent and child becomes even more meaningful.

Matshepo Msibi, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities South Africa, finds herself reflecting on what the organisation has built.

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Msibi explained, “Since opening our Ronald McDonald House at Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, we’ve welcomed more than 5 500 families through our doors, and our Family Rooms at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital have served over 40 000 mothers with respite, comfort, and community during their children’s treatment.”

She recalled watching a mother finally rest at their Parktown House after days at her daughter’s bedside. The mother wasn’t only sleeping – she was exhaling months of fear, surrounded by others who understood without words.

That was the moment Msibi realised this work was not simply about accommodation; it was about preserving the bonds that heal.

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Msibi noted, “Throughout my career in non-profit, government, and development work, I’ve seen what happens when communities rally around those in need, and it is through the generosity of ordinary citizens. The donations made when purchasing a McDonald’s Happy Meal, the food parcels received, and the selfless work of our valued volunteers allow us to continue our mission.”

This generosity made possible a significant milestone this year. In partnership with the Gauteng Department of Health and McDonald’s South Africa, RMHC expanded the Lactation Centre at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital from 18 to 44 spaces. This expansion enables mothers to express life-saving breast milk for their critically ill babies with dignity.

“This meant more mothers who did not have to sleep on a cold hospital floor while their children received critical care; fathers who could enjoy a shower and share a warm meal with other parents walking the same road; siblings who could stay together when everything else felt uncertain; and families who found unexpected strength in community during their most vulnerable moments.”

Looking ahead, RMHC has a bold vision for the coming decade. Aligned with their strategy, they aim to build a Ronald McDonald House at every major public academic hospital. This will move them closer to a South Africa where compassionate care infrastructure reaches every province and community, regardless of circumstance, and where every family can remain by their child’s bedside, knowing they themselves have a safe place to rest and recover.

Msibi concluded, “As we head into a new year of purpose, we strive to fulfil our mission of keeping families close, and I continue to encourage support from our communities through donating and volunteering.”

Viewers are also encouraged to connect with the NPO’s newly launched podcast series, where mothers recount their journeys and share the real stories behind RMHC’s impact.

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