Doris Fisher House provides families facing medical crisis a place to rest while their child receives treatment. This Ronald McDonald House is designed to reduce housing stress so parents can focus on care and recovery.
Below you can scan key facts at a glance, including location capacity, nightly value, and nearby medical partners.
| Attribute | Detail | Notes | Source / Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Doris Fisher House | Ronald McDonald House program | RMHC system |
| Location | Adjacent to UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA | Proximity to pediatric and adult specialty care | Property listing |
| Capacity | 130 private bedrooms | Family-style rooms and fully equipped kitchen | Annual report |
| Cost to Families | No cost to stay | Donated and funded by community partners | Annual report |
| Key Amenities | Wi-Fi, laundry, meals, playrooms, homework help | Designed to support family wellbeing | Visitor guide |
History and Mission of Doris Fisher House
Doris Fisher House opened as part of the Ronald McDonald House Charities network, built through community donations and volunteer effort. Its mission is to keep families close to the hospital without the burden of housing costs.
The house is named for Doris Fisher, Co-Founder of The Gap, whose family legacy emphasizes giving back to communities in need. Leadership and oversight involve local clinicians and housing professionals working together.
How to Qualify and Refer Families
Eligibility focuses on families with a seriously ill or injured child receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. Requirements typically include medical referral, proof of income, and compliance with house policies.
Referral Process for Clinicians
Hospitals and social workers coordinate directly with Ronald McDonald House staff to secure placements quickly.
Visitor Guidelines and Support Services
Visitors are expected to respect quiet hours, property rules, and the needs of other families staying onsite. Staff and volunteers provide orientation so guests understand meal scheduling, parking, and Wi-Fi use.
Support services include language assistance, transportation coordination, and connections to local resources. These services help families manage the practical challenges of extended care stays.
Long-Term Impact and Community Partnerships
Strong partnerships with local businesses, healthcare systems, and volunteers keep the Doris Fisher House running and allow families to focus on healing instead of housing stress.
Ongoing fundraising and community engagement support renovations, technology upgrades, and expanded services tailored to family needs.
- Confirm medical referral and eligibility with hospital social work
- Complete application and financial review promptly
- Prepare documentation such as identification and proof of income
- Review house policies on noise, visiting hours, and safety rules
- Engage with volunteer and meal programs to maximize support
FAQ
Reader questions
How do families qualify to stay at Doris Fisher House?
Qualification requires a referral from a medical professional, proof of financial need, and the child must be under treatment at an affiliated hospital.
Is there an age limit for children staying with their parents?
Children up to age 18 are eligible, with some exceptions for older children with special medical needs as approved by house staff.
Can families cook their own meals or is food provided?
Families can prepare meals using the on-site kitchen, while breakfast and some evening meals may be provided through donated services. Staff maintain a waitlist and work with hospitals to prioritize the most urgent cases, and may coordinate alternative temporary housing when available.