Carle Foundation Hospital Auxiliary Guest House

The Carle Foundation Hospital Auxiliary opened the doors to the Guest House for the first time in January 2003. The Carle Foundation Hospital Auxiliary Guest House is a home away from home for families of hospitalized patients. In its first year of operation, the facility provided lodging for 1,333 guests from 37 states.

When the Carle Foundation Hospital Auxiliary began planning the Guest House, they knew it would take the generosity of others to make the dream a reality. So, it’s not surprising that the house’s very foundation is built on the kindness of others. The Auxiliary made an initial contribution of $300,000 to the Guest House project and today assumes the annual operating costs of the house. Because the Auxiliary assumes the operating costs of the house, guests stay for free.

The Guest House was created primarily for the families of critically ill patients. Families can find comfort in knowing that they can be close to loved ones their times of need. The house has 12 bedrooms with private baths, a comfortable living room, education room, dining room and laundry facilities. Other features include direct phone lines within the Carle system, computer access and an elevator. The house is staffed 24 hours a day.

Charitable dollars not only helped build the home, but also are used to purchase household necessities and for general upkeep of the house.