The heavy usage of Windsor's Ronald McDonald House is showing how great the need was.
Since opening in May of this year at Windsor Regional Hospital, Director of Development Jenne Wason says 69 families have stayed there long-term. That's 14 nights on average. One family made use of the space for 73 days.
"One of the most powerful comments we got was that [the parent] thought their child grew stronger quicker because they were able to be there," explains Wason. "This was a premature baby. Mom and Dad were able to be there by the baby's side for nursing at all hours of the night and things like that."
Wason says the house opened its day pass program in July, which has since allowed 1,500 family members to come in for a nap, have lunch, do laundry or take a shower.
Right now, the organization is looking for volunteers to help cook dinners for the families in need.
Visit rmhc-swo.ca to find out how to get involved.