American Cancer Society Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Hope Lodge— Rochester, MN

411 Second Street NW, Rochester, MN 55901 507-529-4673 or 800-227-2345
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Our History

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge program provides a free home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers. More than just a roof over their heads, it’s a nurturing community that helps patients access the care they need. Each Hope Lodge community offers a supportive, homelike environment where guests can share a meal, join in the evening’s activities, or unwind in their own private room. Patients staying at a Hope Lodge must be in active cancer treatment.

Established in 1970, the Charleston, SC Hope Lodge was the first facility of its kind in the country for cancer patients and caregivers. The concept came from Margot Freudenberg, a leader in the Charleston medical and business communities, who saw a similar facility while traveling through Australia and New Zealand with President Eisenhower’s People to People Ambassador Program. After her own family was touched by cancer, Margot was determined to establish the very first Hope Lodge community in Charleston. Now a nationwide program of the American Cancer Society, over 30 Hope Lodge facilities in the United States and Puerto Rico serve patients and caregivers from all over the world.

Actively involved in the Hope Lodge program until she was 105, Margot was the longest-serving American Cancer Society volunteer to date. Her attitude of gratitude, despite being forced from her home during the Nazi occupation of Germany, still inspires us today. Her legacy of grace, giving, and service live on through our wonderful Hope Lodge volunteers.

About This Hope Lodge

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Rochester, which opened in 1999, offers  62 guest rooms located near treatment centers in the area.

Each Hope Lodge community offers:

  • A supportive environment for patients in cancer treatment and their caregivers
  • Close proximity to local cancer treatment centers
  • Private guest rooms and bathrooms
  • Fully equipped community kitchens for food storage and preparation
  • Gathering areas/great rooms and community dining rooms
  • Free laundry rooms stocked with supplies
  • Outdoor, reflection, or meditation spaces
  • A library and/or resource rooms
  • TVs and computer access
  • Dedicated volunteers who help to ensure a comfortable stay for our guests and frequently cook/provide meals
  • Committed team members providing a nurturing and safe environment for guests 

Staff and Volunteers

The Hope Lodge team members are committed to providing a nurturing home away from home for our guests 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Support from volunteers and local organizations is critical to the American Cancer Society’s mission of providing free lodging to cancer patients and their caregivers. Learn more about volunteer opportunities at a Hope Lodge community near you.

Guest Comments

Hope Lodge is a glimmering star in the dark sky of confusion surrounding a cancer diagnosis. The value of Hope Lodge is equal to many of the high-class hotels. Nothing can replace the comfort of such places to rest and recover.

Guest from Virginia

The Hope Lodge is a loving, caring place for people in need of help, company, and companionship. I met so many wonderful people in my same situation, and that makes the time and treatments bearable. It is like coming home every day to friends.

Guest from Maryland

Hope Lodge gave me peace of mind knowing I could get the best treatment and stay close to the hospital.

Guest from Maryland

Your facility is well run by kind and caring staff. It was a Godsend to be so close to the hospital and to know that I did not have to worry about getting back to a hotel room.

Anonymous guest

The Hope Lodge was a beautiful and relaxing place to stay. It was close to the hospital so I was able to walk back and forth. The staff was very friendly and made my stay very enjoyable.

Anonymous guest

Support the Rochester, MN Hope Lodge

Your generous donations to support the Hope Lodge program allow us to continue to provide free, safe, comfortable, and convenient lodging for patients who need to travel from home to get the cancer treatment they need.

Support the Rochester Hope Lodge

Being a Hope Lodge guest is a courtesy extended at the sole discretion of the American Cancer Society. All individuals who meet Hope Lodge eligibility requirements will be welcomed regardless of race, creed, citizenship, disability, gender, color, ethnic heritage, veteran status, economic status, or sexual orientation.