CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- We’ve heard a lot about a shortage of workers these days, but one local charity said it’s also missing volunteers.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and NW Indiana estimates they’ve seen a 75 percent drop in volunteers since before of the pandemic. Vice President of Programs and Services Lisa Mitchell said that’s about 50,000 hours of people helping the families of children getting medical treatment.
"Their lives might of changed in different ways. Over the past year, it's been a challenge and people are struggling in lots of different ways, so their focus and how they are able to kind of balance their lives," Mitchell said.
With COVID case numbers low, the charity is ready to bring back volunteers, but with some restrictions to protect their vulnerable guests. The call comes after months of reducing exposures for some of their medically fragile guests.
Mitchell said they’re not requiring proof of vaccination, but volunteers must follow guidelines, including being symptom free for 14 days and wearing masks inside.
"If everyone is willing to mask, then we are willing to put them to work and happy to do so," she said.
Volunteer opportunities include making meals for families staying at the homes in four of the charity’s kitchens.
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