In a July 6 statement released by the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Central Florida, the nonprofit organization declared they would be temporarily closing their houses in Orlando until July 18. This decision was made following the discovery of positive COVID-19 cases found in their houses. The nonprofit believes that closing their doors temporarily is the best way to protect their guest families because of how easily the virus can be spread.

“For 23 years, we have been committed to providing a clean, welcoming, and healthy space for families with ill or injured children seeking treatment at nearby hospitals in the Central Florida area. Rest assured our mission has not changed,” stated Lou Ann DeVoogd, president/CEO of RMHC of Central Florida.

“Although our Houses will be closed for a short period of time, we continue to carry out our mission by providing hotel accommodations to our current guest families, at no cost to them,” DeVoogd continued in the statement. “We need your support more than ever!”

The organization’s top focus is on the health and well-being of their guest families, so they will reassess future plans for their houses in Central Florida after July 18. DeVoogd also vows to keep friends and supporters of RMHC updated.

For anyone looking to support RMHC or directly help out within the Orlando community, you can underwrite the cost of a family night stay or make a donation on their website at https://www.rmhccf.org/.