About Us...

Thousands of patients travel to Morgantown each year to obtain the specialized and extended medical care offered at West Virginia University Hospitals. We believe that healing involves not only great medical care, but also the love and support of family and loved ones. Rosenbaum Family House provides a place for adult patients and their families to stay while receiving medical care at WVU.

Family House was a dream turned into a reality for Morgantown businesswoman Hilda Rosenbaum. She learned first-hand the hardship of out-of-town hospital stays, which led to her vision of Family House.

More than 40 years ago Hilda and Richard Rosenbaum lost their daughter, Nancy, at the age of 6 to cystic fibrosis. At that time, WVU Hospitals did not exist, so the Rosenbaums traveled around the country in search of treatment for their daughter. They spent many nights sleeping on cots or in chairs in her room.

Sadly, shortly after their daughter’s death, the Rosenbaum’s son, Richard, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. By then, WVU had built its first hospital and Richard was able to receive care close to home until his death at age 36.

Mrs. Rosenbaum vowed to make a difference for others facing similar medical crises, so she made a financial commitment to help build Family House.

The four-story building is conveniently located on the WVU Health Sciences Center campus and connects directly into Ruby Memorial Hospital for easy access to medical care. Its 26 hotel-style guest rooms and laundry facilities provide the privacy and conveniences of home. Two common kitchen areas are fully equipped with appliances and cooking and eating utensils. Lounges provide a comfortable relaxation space with access to books, puzzles, videos and games for family enjoyment.

Family House offers programs designed to provide spiritual and emotional support. For many families facing a medical crisis, this is as important as having an affordable place to stay. Over 30 volunteers and community organizations offer meals, support groups, prayer services, music therapy and other activities that make Rosenbaum Family House a home away from home.

Family House reflects the power of love, the strength of the human
spirit, and the belief in family. The generosity and support of
individuals, businesses and volunteers is what makes it all possible.

On-Going Support
Each year, nearly 1,000 families find comfort within the walls of Family House; yet more than 1,500 families are turned away due to the lack of rooms. The need for a Family House expansion is crucial.

Nearly 50% of families utilizing Family House's services pay over the $15 per night minimum fee, however, many others do not have the financial means to provide a gift. Because no one is turned away if they cannot pay, these payments only cover approximately one-third of the annual operating expenses. These annual gifts provide the support we need to maintain operations while keeping fees to a minimum for those we serve.