The Importance of Wrap-Around Programming for Families at Ronald McDonald House in Omaha

When a child is seriously ill, the entire family is affected. Parents face the stress of medical decision-making, siblings experience disruption in their daily lives, and the sick child endures physical and emotional challenges. For many families, the added difficulty of traveling to Omaha for medical care only increases the burden. Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha (RMHC) provides not just a place to stay but a comprehensive support system that enhances the well-being of the entire family. Through strategic partnerships with local organizations, RMHC offers wrap-around programming that nurtures emotional, educational, physical, and social well-being. Emotional and Social Well-Being Building and maintaining a sense of normalcy is crucial for families facing medical challenges. RMHC collaborates with organizations that provide uplifting and therapeutic experiences:

• Simon Says: Live a Better Life ensures that birthdays are celebrated with monthly parties, allowing children and families to enjoy special moments together.
• Project Sunshine brings Creighton University student volunteers weekly, engaging children and families in creative arts and crafts activities that promote joy and connection.
• Omaha Community Playhouse fosters creativity and self-expression by engaging children in writing, storytelling, acting, and imaginative play.
• Horses Help SWI provides equine-assisted therapeutic services, offering comfort and emotional relief for individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, or social challenges.

Educational and Cognitive Support A child’s medical condition can disrupt their education, leading to learning gaps and academic challenges. RMHC partners with organization[HS1]? that provide educational support:

• Completely KIDS offers curriculum-based programming tailored to children who have experienced disruptions in their education due to illness.

Physical and Personal Well-Being Maintaining a sense of well-being extends beyond medical care. RMHC ensures that families have access to personal care and wellness programs:

• Capitol Beauty School & Independent Hairstylists provide haircuts in the House salon, helping families feel refreshed and cared for.
• Here For You, For Them introduces mindful parenting tools, yoga, and breathing exercises to manage stress and build resilience.
• Option Care Home Health delivers advanced infusion medications, nursing support, and seamless transitional care for patients.

Nutritional Support Proper nutrition is a fundamental component of well-being, especially for families managing illnesses. RMHC works with a partners to ensure families have access to nutritious meals:

• Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue connects excess perishable food from local food purveyors to RMHC families, reducing food insecurity and providing healthy meal options.

The comprehensive wrap-around programming at RMHC ensures that families receive more than just a place to stay—they receive holistic support tailored to their emotional, educational, social, and physical needs. These programs create an environment where families can heal together, find joy in small moments, and build resilience for the journey ahead. By fostering collaboration with local organizations, RMHC continues to strengthen families and improve health outcomes, proving that support extends far beyond medical care.

At RMHC, we are committed to making a lasting impact on the families we serve, but we cannot do it alone. If you or your organization are interested in partnering with us to support our wrap-around programming, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, please reach out to: Mackenzie Leahy; [email protected]; 402-346-9377 ext 133.

?[HS1]Since it's just CK listed, should it be "an organization"?