Children play in a library area with bookshelves, colorful seats, and adults nearby.

Hospitality a la Carte


Not every family can leave their loved one's bedside, even for a few minutes. The Hospitality a la Carte program brings comfort directly to families throughout Children's Hospital at Erlanger, ensuring they receive small moments of care without having to leave the patient room.


Launched in 2017 as an extension of the Ronald McDonald House® Family Room, Hospitality a la Carte expands Ronald McDonald House® Greater Chattanooga's reach by serving families who may be unable to visit the Family Room during their hospital stay.


Operated by dedicated Erlanger volunteers, the mobile hospitality cart travels throughout the hospital each weekday, offering refreshments, comfort items, and a friendly face during what can be an overwhelming time.

Bringing Comfort to Families

Hospitality a la Carte visits patient rooms in:

  • Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • Labor and Delivery
  • High-Risk Pregnancy Unit


By bringing support directly to families, the program helps parents and caregivers stay close to their loved ones while still receiving a few of life's everyday comforts.


As the hospitality cart makes its daily rounds, families may enjoy complimentary items such as:

  • Fresh coffee and hot tea
  • Snacks and light refreshments
  • Books and reading materials
  • Small toys and crafts for children and siblings
  • Friendly conversation and encouragement from volunteers


Every visit is designed to provide a brief moment of comfort and normalcy during a difficult hospital experience.

Why It Matters

When a child or loved one is hospitalized, even stepping away for a cup of coffee can feel impossible. Hospitality a la Carte removes that barrier by bringing simple comforts directly to families, allowing them to remain where they want to be most—at their loved one's bedside.

Sometimes the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference.

Contact Hospitality a la Carte

To learn more about the Hospitality a la Carte program, please contact:


Carla Sewell
 Chief Programs Officer

Phone: (423) 719-0725
 Email: [email protected]