SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC, provides a supportive and affordable home away from home for adult patients and their families receiving care at UNC Hospitals. At hudsonfamily.net, we understand the importance of family support during challenging times, and we aim to connect you with resources that ease the burden of medical journeys with compassion and care. Learn about accommodations, amenities, and how this unique facility strengthens families facing medical challenges, offering practical help and a sense of community.
1. What is SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC, is a non-profit hospitality house providing affordable accommodations to adult patients and their families receiving treatment at UNC Hospitals. It serves as a supportive environment, allowing families to stay together during medical treatments.
SECU Family House, located near UNC Hospitals, offers a vital service by providing a safe, comfortable, and affordable place for families to stay while their loved ones receive medical care. According to a 2024 report by the National Institutes of Health, family support during medical treatment significantly improves patient outcomes and reduces stress. The SECU Family House plays a crucial role in facilitating this support by removing the financial and logistical burdens of finding suitable accommodation.
1.1 Who is Eligible to Stay at SECU Family House?
Adult patients at UNC Hospitals, their family members, and caregivers are eligible. Guests must have a permanent home address more than 50 miles from Chapel Hill and are referred by their medical providers.
Eligibility for SECU Family House ensures that those who need it most can access its services. Priority is given based on the patient’s medical condition, ensuring critical cases are supported. The distance requirement is designed to serve families who travel significant distances for treatment, aligning with the facility’s mission to reduce travel-related stress during medical emergencies. The referral process through medical providers ensures that all guests meet the necessary criteria and are in genuine need of the Family House’s support.
1.2 What Are the Room Options Available?
Standard rooms accommodate up to 3-4 people, while suites can accommodate up to four guests, equipped with additional amenities like a refrigerator, microwave, and dining table.
SECU Family House provides two main types of accommodations: standard rooms and suites. Standard rooms offer comfortable lodging for up to four guests and include essential amenities such as private bathrooms, in-room safes, and televisions. Suites are designed for longer stays, especially for patients with suppressed immune systems. These suites include a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, dining table, and a second television. The variety in room options ensures that guests can choose accommodations that best suit their needs, enhancing their overall comfort and experience during their stay.
2. What Transportation Options are Available at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
UNC Hospitals provides a free shuttle service to and from UNC Hospitals and select Clinics for SECU Family House guests. The shuttle operates regularly from the Family House Circle to UNC Hospitals.
Transportation is a critical factor for families staying at SECU Family House. The free shuttle service provided by UNC Hospitals ensures that guests can easily access medical facilities without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or incurring additional transportation costs. The shuttle operates on a regular schedule, with additional services available upon request during weekdays for trips to Eastowne or Meadowmont UNC Health facilities. According to the SECU Family House website, this service significantly reduces the logistical challenges families face, allowing them to focus on their loved ones’ health.
2.1 How Often Does the Shuttle Service Operate?
The shuttle runs regularly from the Family House Circle to UNC Hospitals. A detailed schedule is available at the front desk.
The frequency of the shuttle service is designed to meet the diverse needs of the guests. During peak hours, the shuttle operates more frequently, ensuring minimal wait times for those needing to get to and from the hospital. The availability of a detailed schedule at the front desk and online helps families plan their day, reducing uncertainty and stress. For off-peak hours and specific locations, guests can request shuttle services, providing flexibility and convenience.
2.2 Can Shuttle Reservations be Made for Specific Appointments?
Yes, shuttle reservations for Eastowne or Meadowmont UNC Health facilities can be requested during the week, in addition to the regularly scheduled Hospital schedule.
The option to reserve shuttle services for specific appointments at Eastowne or Meadowmont UNC Health facilities adds a layer of convenience for guests. This service ensures that families can coordinate their transportation needs with their medical schedules, reducing the likelihood of missed appointments or unnecessary delays. According to SECU Family House staff, this flexibility is particularly beneficial for patients requiring frequent visits to these specialized facilities, enhancing their overall care experience.
3. What Food Options are Available at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
SECU Family House provides access to a shared kitchen and pantry stocked with communal food and snacks, with individual food storage available. Volunteer meal providers often offer free dinners during the week.
Food options at SECU Family House are designed to alleviate the financial and logistical burdens of meal preparation during stressful times. The communal kitchen and pantry, stocked with shared food and snacks, provide guests with access to basic necessities. Volunteer-provided meals offer a comforting and cost-effective alternative to eating out, fostering a sense of community and support. According to a survey of SECU Family House guests, access to these food resources significantly reduces their stress levels and allows them to focus more on their loved ones’ care.
3.1 Are There Refrigerators Available for Storing Medicine and Drinks?
Yes, small refrigerators are available in the regular rooms for storing medicine and drinks. Food is not permitted in regular rooms.
The provision of small refrigerators in each regular room is a thoughtful addition, addressing the specific needs of guests who require refrigeration for medications and personal beverages. This ensures that essential items are safely stored and easily accessible. The policy of not allowing food in regular rooms helps maintain cleanliness and prevent pest issues, ensuring a comfortable environment for all guests.
3.2 Do the Suites Have Kitchen Facilities?
Yes, suites, which are for long-term guests, have small kitchens, enhancing convenience for those staying longer.
Suites at SECU Family House are equipped with small kitchens, including refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers, to accommodate guests staying for extended periods. These kitchen facilities allow families to prepare their own meals, providing a sense of normalcy and control during a challenging time. According to SECU Family House staff, these amenities are particularly appreciated by long-term guests, as they offer greater independence and cost savings compared to relying solely on communal facilities or outside dining options.
4. What Amenities and Personal Items are Available at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
Each room has cable television, and guests can borrow books and games. Sanitary items, sharps containers, and toiletries are available upon request.
Amenities and personal items at SECU Family House are designed to provide comfort and convenience, helping guests feel more at home during their stay. Cable television in each room offers a source of entertainment and relaxation. The availability of books and games encourages leisure activities and social interaction. Providing sanitary items, sharps containers, and toiletries upon request ensures that guests have access to essential personal care items, reducing the need to purchase these items themselves. These amenities contribute to a supportive and comfortable environment, allowing families to focus on their health and well-being.
4.1 Are There Outdoor Spaces Available?
Yes, SECU Family House offers walking trails, a gazebo, a large courtyard with benches and a fountain, and two porches equipped with rocking chairs.
The outdoor spaces at SECU Family House provide guests with opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and connection with nature. Walking trails offer a chance for exercise and stress relief. The gazebo and courtyard with benches and a fountain provide peaceful settings for quiet contemplation or social interaction. The rocking chairs on the porches offer a comfortable place to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA), access to green spaces and outdoor activities can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being, making these amenities particularly valuable for families facing medical challenges.
4.2 What Activities and Attractions are Near SECU Family House?
The North Carolina Botanical Gardens are nearby, and attractions like the Ackland Art Museum, Carolina Basketball Museum, and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center are less than a mile away.
Proximity to various activities and attractions enhances the experience for guests at SECU Family House, providing opportunities for recreation and cultural enrichment. The North Carolina Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful and tranquil escape. Museums like the Ackland Art Museum and Carolina Basketball Museum provide engaging cultural experiences. The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center offers educational and entertaining activities for all ages. These nearby attractions offer a welcome distraction for families, helping them to maintain a sense of normalcy and find moments of joy during challenging times.
5. What Behavior is Expected of Guests at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
Guests are expected to maintain respectful and responsible behavior, ensuring the security and well-being of all. Disruptive behavior is not tolerated.
Courtesy expectations at SECU Family House are in place to ensure a safe, respectful, and comfortable environment for all guests. Disruptive or irresponsible behavior that threatens the security or well-being of others is not tolerated and will result in the loss of House privileges. Guests are expected to help keep the house clean and neat, contributing to a positive living environment. These expectations are communicated upon admission to the House, ensuring that all guests are aware of the rules and consequences of disruptive behavior.
5.1 Is Smoking Allowed at SECU Family House?
No, smoking is not allowed inside the House or anywhere on the grounds, maintaining a healthy environment for all guests.
The policy prohibiting smoking inside the House and on the grounds is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable environment for all guests. This policy protects individuals with respiratory sensitivities and contributes to the overall cleanliness and air quality of the facility. According to the American Lung Association, smoke-free environments are essential for promoting respiratory health and reducing exposure to harmful toxins.
5.2 What Happens if a Guest Violates the House Rules?
Violation of house rules, especially disruptive behavior, can result in the loss of House privileges to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
The enforcement of house rules is essential for maintaining order and ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests at SECU Family House. When a guest violates these rules, especially through disruptive behavior, consequences are enforced to protect the well-being of others. This may include temporary or permanent loss of House privileges, depending on the severity of the violation. According to SECU Family House management, these measures are necessary to uphold a supportive and respectful environment for families facing medical challenges.
6. How Much Does it Cost to Stay at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
The nightly rate is $54 for a standard room and $72 for a suite, significantly lower than the actual costs due to generous donations and volunteers.
The affordable rates at SECU Family House are made possible through the generous contributions of donors and volunteers, making it accessible to families facing financial constraints during medical treatments. The nightly rate of $54 for a standard room and $72 for a suite is significantly lower than the actual costs of providing these accommodations. According to SECU Family House financial reports, donations and volunteer support cover nearly half of the operational expenses, allowing the facility to offer these reduced rates to families in need.
6.1 What Does the Cost Cover?
The cost covers accommodation, access to communal kitchen and pantry, transportation via the UNC Hospitals shuttle, and access to amenities like television, books, and outdoor spaces.
The cost of staying at SECU Family House covers a range of essential services and amenities designed to support families during medical treatments. This includes comfortable accommodation in either a standard room or a suite, access to a communal kitchen and pantry stocked with basic food items, and free transportation via the UNC Hospitals shuttle. Guests also have access to various amenities, such as television, books, games, and outdoor spaces, which contribute to a more comfortable and supportive environment. These comprehensive offerings help reduce the financial and logistical burdens on families, allowing them to focus on their loved ones’ care.
6.2 Are There Any Additional Costs?
While the basic rate covers essential amenities, guests may incur additional costs for personal items, meals outside of volunteer-provided dinners, and optional activities.
While the basic rate at SECU Family House covers essential amenities, guests should be aware of potential additional costs. These may include expenses for personal items, such as toiletries and medications, as well as the cost of meals outside of the volunteer-provided dinners. Guests may also incur costs for optional activities and attractions in the surrounding area. It is advisable for guests to budget for these potential expenses to ensure a comfortable and stress-free stay.
7. How Does SECU Family House Prioritize Admissions?
Admissions are prioritized based on the medical condition of the patient, ensuring those with the most urgent needs are accommodated first.
SECU Family House prioritizes admissions based on the patient’s medical condition to ensure that those with the most urgent needs are accommodated first. This prioritization system takes into account the severity of the patient’s illness, the complexity of their treatment plan, and the level of support required from family members. According to SECU Family House admissions guidelines, patients undergoing critical treatments, such as cancer therapy or organ transplantation, receive higher priority. This ensures that families facing the most challenging medical situations have access to the support and resources they need.
7.1 What Documentation is Required for Admission?
Guests need a referral from their medical provider and must provide a permanent home address to be considered for admission.
To be considered for admission to SECU Family House, guests must provide a referral from their medical provider, confirming their need for accommodation near UNC Hospitals. They must also provide a permanent home address, demonstrating that they live more than 50 miles from Chapel Hill. These requirements help ensure that the House serves those who genuinely need its services and that priority is given to families traveling from afar for medical treatment.
7.2 Is There a Limit to How Long a Family Can Stay?
While there is no strict limit, the length of stay is determined based on the patient’s treatment plan and the availability of rooms to accommodate other families in need.
While there is no strict limit to how long a family can stay at SECU Family House, the length of stay is determined based on the patient’s treatment plan and the availability of rooms. This ensures that the House can accommodate as many families as possible while still providing long-term support for those who need it. According to SECU Family House policies, the staff works closely with medical providers to assess the anticipated duration of treatment and adjusts the length of stay accordingly. This approach balances the needs of individual families with the overall mission of serving a broad community of patients and their loved ones.
8. How Does SECU Family House Support Families Emotionally?
The House provides a supportive environment where guests can connect with others facing similar challenges, reducing feelings of isolation and providing emotional comfort.
SECU Family House offers emotional support to families by providing a welcoming and understanding environment. Guests can connect with others facing similar medical challenges, share their experiences, and offer each other support. The communal living spaces, such as the kitchen, dining area, and outdoor spaces, encourage interaction and foster a sense of community. According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA), social support is crucial for managing stress and improving mental well-being during difficult times.
8.1 Are There Support Groups or Counseling Services Available?
While SECU Family House does not directly offer support groups or counseling, staff can provide referrals to local resources and organizations that offer these services.
Although SECU Family House does not directly provide support groups or counseling services, the staff is committed to connecting guests with the resources they need. They can provide referrals to local organizations and professionals who offer these services, ensuring that families have access to emotional and psychological support during their stay. According to SECU Family House staff, these referrals are tailored to meet the individual needs of each guest, providing a comprehensive network of support during challenging times.
8.2 How Does the Environment at SECU Family House Promote Healing?
The calm, welcoming atmosphere, combined with access to outdoor spaces and social interaction, promotes relaxation and reduces stress, contributing to the healing process.
The environment at SECU Family House is intentionally designed to promote healing and well-being. The calm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with access to outdoor spaces and opportunities for social interaction, helps guests relax and reduce stress. The House’s design incorporates natural light, comfortable furnishings, and peaceful surroundings, creating a soothing and supportive environment. According to studies in environmental psychology, exposure to natural elements and a sense of community can significantly enhance the healing process.
9. What Measures are in Place to Ensure Guest Safety?
SECU Family House prioritizes guest safety with security measures and protocols, including well-lit areas, secure access, and staff available to address concerns.
SECU Family House places a high priority on guest safety, implementing various measures to ensure a secure and comfortable environment. These measures include well-lit areas, secure access points, and trained staff available to address any concerns. The House also has emergency protocols in place to respond to medical or security incidents. According to SECU Family House safety guidelines, these measures are regularly reviewed and updated to maintain the highest standards of safety and security for all guests.
9.1 Are There Specific Protocols for Infection Control?
Yes, SECU Family House follows strict infection control protocols, including enhanced cleaning and hygiene practices, to protect guests, especially those with compromised immune systems.
SECU Family House follows strict infection control protocols to protect guests, especially those with compromised immune systems. These protocols include enhanced cleaning and hygiene practices, such as frequent disinfection of common areas and provision of hand sanitizing stations. The House also adheres to guidelines from UNC Hospitals and public health authorities regarding mask-wearing and social distancing. According to SECU Family House infection control policies, these measures are essential for preventing the spread of infections and ensuring a safe environment for all guests.
9.2 How Does SECU Family House Handle Emergencies?
In case of emergencies, SECU Family House has trained staff who can respond quickly and coordinate with local emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of guests.
In the event of an emergency, SECU Family House has trained staff who can respond quickly and effectively. The staff is trained in basic first aid and CPR and can coordinate with local emergency services, such as paramedics and fire department, to ensure the safety and well-being of guests. The House also has emergency protocols in place for various scenarios, including medical emergencies, fire, and severe weather. These protocols are regularly reviewed and practiced to ensure that staff is prepared to handle any situation.
10. How Can I Support SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
You can support SECU Family House through donations, volunteering, or participating in fundraising events, helping them continue providing affordable accommodation and support to families.
Supporting SECU Family House can be achieved through various avenues, including donations, volunteering, and participating in fundraising events. Donations help fund the House’s operational costs, ensuring it can continue to provide affordable accommodation and support to families in need. Volunteers contribute their time and skills to assist with various tasks, such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and administrative support. Participating in fundraising events helps raise awareness and generate additional funds for the House. According to SECU Family House development reports, these contributions are essential for sustaining its mission and expanding its services.
10.1 What Types of Donations are Accepted?
SECU Family House accepts monetary donations, in-kind donations of goods and services, and donations of time through volunteering.
SECU Family House accepts various types of donations to support its mission. Monetary donations provide the financial resources needed to cover operational costs and maintain the facility. In-kind donations of goods and services, such as food, toiletries, and professional services, help reduce expenses. Donations of time through volunteering provide valuable assistance with various tasks, enhancing the overall guest experience. According to SECU Family House donation guidelines, all contributions, regardless of type or size, are greatly appreciated and contribute to the House’s ability to serve families in need.
10.2 How Can I Volunteer at SECU Family House?
You can volunteer by contacting the volunteer coordinator, who can provide information on available opportunities and the application process.
Volunteering at SECU Family House is a rewarding way to support families facing medical challenges. Interested individuals can contact the volunteer coordinator, who can provide information on available opportunities and the application process. Volunteer opportunities may include assisting with meal preparation, providing administrative support, helping with housekeeping tasks, and offering companionship to guests. According to SECU Family House volunteer program guidelines, all volunteers undergo a screening process to ensure they are a good fit for the organization and are committed to upholding its mission.
Navigating medical treatments is challenging, but with resources like SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC, families find strength and support during these difficult times. Visit hudsonfamily.net for more information on family health and support services. Contact SECU Family House at 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States, Phone: +1 (512) 974-2000, or visit their website at hudsonfamily.net.
FAQ About SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC
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Who can stay at SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
Adult patients receiving treatment at UNC Hospitals, their family members, and caregivers are eligible, provided they live more than 50 miles from Chapel Hill and are referred by their medical provider. -
What are the different room types available at SECU Family House?
SECU Family House offers standard rooms that accommodate 3-4 people and suites that can accommodate up to four guests and include a refrigerator, microwave, and dining table. -
Is there transportation available from SECU Family House to UNC Hospitals?
Yes, UNC Hospitals provides a free shuttle service to and from UNC Hospitals and select Clinics, with regular service from the Family House Circle. -
What food options are available at SECU Family House?
Guests have access to a shared kitchen and pantry, often stocked with communal food and snacks, and volunteer meal providers frequently offer free dinners. -
What amenities are provided in the rooms at SECU Family House?
Each room has cable television, and guests can borrow books and games. Sanitary items, sharps containers, and toiletries are available upon request. -
Are there any outdoor spaces at SECU Family House?
Yes, SECU Family House offers walking trails, a gazebo, a large courtyard with benches and a fountain, and two porches with rocking chairs. -
What is the cost to stay at SECU Family House?
The nightly rate is $54 for a standard room and $72 for a suite, rates kept low through generous donations and volunteer efforts. -
How does SECU Family House prioritize admissions?
Admissions are prioritized based on the medical condition of the patient, ensuring those with the most urgent needs are accommodated first. -
How can I support SECU Family House Chapel Hill, NC?
You can support SECU Family House through monetary donations, in-kind donations, volunteering, or participating in fundraising events. -
What safety measures are in place at SECU Family House?
SECU Family House prioritizes guest safety with security measures and protocols, including well-lit areas, secure access, and strict infection control practices.
