A home in times of direst need

KENT BLECHYNDEN/The Dominion Post

FRIENDLY FACE: Fiona Crocker gives up a night every two weeks to stay over at Ronald McDonald House in Newtown, Wellington, welcoming new families and liaising with the hospital.

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Once there it becomes a sanctuary, with a friendly face just a wave away. Fiona Crocker is one of those faces.

The 31-year-old recruitment consultant first entered the Newtown house visiting her sister's friend, who had premature twins. The mother spent five months away from her Manawatu home with the babies in Wellington Hospital.

"For her to be away from her family and able to be there and not have to pay hotel bills or parking, it's pretty amazing," Miss Crocker says.

A decade later, she decided to volunteer at Ronald McDonald House.

Last year she began relieving paid staff after work but now, once a fortnight, she stays over at the house.

She arrives at 7.30pm for the sole charge role, welcoming new families and liaising with the hospital in case of emergency.

She dishes out DVDs or PlayStation games for siblings and is on hand for a cuppa and chat about life outside the hospital for a lonely parent.

The next morning, she leaves at 8.30 for her day job.

"It's not a big thing for me to do. It's just one night and I just know it makes a difference. That's why I'm there.

"Throughout my life I have come across people who are doing things for other people, with no thanks needed.

"I just wanted to give back and be involved in the community."

There are 99 volunteers at Ronald McDonald House, plus corporate groups that cook for the families.

Ronald McDonald House operations manager Brent Taylor said he was always impressed with those wanting to volunteer, especially as most at the house were in the 20-30 age group.

"It's a cost-saving for us, but the volunteers also get something out of it. It's win-win."

You can nominate an unsung hero for our Volunteer Week series. Email news@dompost.co.nz