Two BC Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) chapters have announced they will require full vaccination status in order for people to work at, stay in or visit their facilities.
Starting January 17th, both the House at 4567 Heather Street in Vancouver and the Family Room in Surrey Memorial Hospital will require proof of full vaccination (two doses) in addition to completing an existing screening.
The mandate will apply to all staff, visitors and residents—including children—unless accommodation has been sought and explicitly approved and granted by RMH BC in writing.
RMHC provides support and resources to families with hospitalized infants and children, many of whom are immunocompromised.
They operate in 62 countries and regions around the world.
Starting January 12th, the two RMHC chapters in BC will begin their vaccination scanning process. Employees, residents and visitors will visit the front desk to scan their BC vaccination passport, confirming proof of vaccination, or provide their vaccination card for those 12 and under.
In a release posted to the RMHC website titled RMHC Global Position on Vaccination Mandates and COVID Safety Protocols, RMHC detailed how each local Chapter faces different circumstances in the fight against COVID-19.
“It is a local Chapter decision whether or not to mandate vaccinations of RMHC guest families,” the release read.
“Since vaccinations have been proven to limit the spread of the virus and reduce severity of disease, RMHC Global strongly recommends that local Chapters require vaccination of all eligible staff, families and visitors to RMHC program spaces, including recommended boosters when individuals are eligible.
This announcement was met with backlash from the public as well as current residents.
Now, RMHC has announced alternative arrangements will be made for families with unvaccinated members after the January 31st deadline.
“Our commitment to protecting the health and well-being of the vulnerable population of children we serve, their families, RMHC staff, volunteers and communities is always our top priority,” RMHC said.
