Referral Process

The Ronald McDonald House is filled on a first come, first serve basis. We do not take reservations because families with ill children are often not able to predict when their care will end.  For all new families (who have never stayed with us before), please read and follow the steps outlined below to allow us to best serve you upon your arrival in Rochester.

Once you’ve arrived in Rochester, call the Ronald McDonald House  (507) 282-3955 to check on availability and to visit  with a Families Services staff person.

Our staff will advise you on how to obtain a referral from Mayo Clinic Social Services. IMPORTANT: Mayo Clinic referrals are required before a new family can check into the Ronald McDonald House but are not necessary to be placed on our wait list and receive our reduced hotel rates. 

The Mayo Clinic Social Service office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 am to Noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at (507) 284-2131. Their offices are located in the Mayo Lobby on the first floor.  They are also available weekends and holidays. They may have a different location on these days so you will need to call (507) 284-2511 and speak to the on-call Social Worker. At this time they will let you know where you can meet with them.

Once you have met with Mayo Social Services, please call the Ronald McDonald House (507) 282-3955  to check your status and confirm that your referral has been received.