Young families at Mount Isa hospital are set to receive the benefits of the first Ronald McDonald House Charities hospitality cart in all of Australia.
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This unique RMHC program is designed to specifically address the needs of seriously ill North West Queensland children and their families.
It is a multi-use cart on wheels that will make many local families feel just that little bit better when unfortunately visiting the hospital.
North West Hospital and Health Service board Chair Paul Woodhouse said the cart was designed to help both the child and the parent.
"It will offer books and Ipads with educational activities, provide practical care items and comfort items for parents sleeping bedside including eye masks, earplugs and socks well as snacks, meals and beverages," Mr Woodhouse said.
He said the cart will be located in the Children's Ward and Special Care Nursery.
"The Hospitality Cart will provide practical support and comfort to the North West community through boredom-busters and learning activities such as books, craft activities and entertainment for patients, siblings and their parents," he said.
RMHC North Australia acting CEO Denise Lumsden said she was delighted to be supporting the Mount Isa community.
"We aim to serve those in need by providing essential items that help fill an empty stomach, provide moments of rest and ultimately put a smile on peoples faces during difficult times," Ms Lumsden said.
Bencee Les Wilson managing director, Mick McLoughlin who helped build the cart said he had been involved with charity for over 16 years and it was out on it own.
"Last year I went to the international conference for Ronald McDonald and to be in a room so full of love is an experience that I cant put into words," Mr McLoughlin said.
"I saw their cart and thought why doesn't Australia have a cart, we are the biggest continent in the world and have a lot of remote towns."
Volunteers will be critical to the success of the cart and will help stock it, deliver the items, connect with sick children and their families and provide general well-being checks.
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