Childhood illness can have a devastating effect on families. Ronald McDonald House North Queensland supports seriously ill children and their families through a range of practical programs and supportive care services including a hospital-adjacent House that can provide accommodation to more than 100 people each night; a Family Retreat in Palm Cove; a Learning Program that operates across the NQ region and into the Northern Territory; and a Family Room located within the Townsville Hospital. We help reduce stress, anxiety and financial burden for families when they are accessing medical care for their children. Research indicates families are better able to cope and focus on the needs of their sick child due to our support. Seriously ill children whose families are able to stay close by and participate in their medical treatment experience better social and psychological well-being, including faster recoveries.