McDonald’s Canada says this year’s McHappy Day campaign raised more than $10.8 million in support of Ronald McDonald House Canada and other local children’s charities across the country.
The company said the May 6 fundraiser marked the 32nd edition of the annual campaign, which directs proceeds and donations toward programs supporting families with critically sick and injured children.
McDonald’s said customers contributed through purchases ranging from coffee to meals during the one-day event, with funds helping Ronald McDonald House programs provide accommodation, meals and wellness support for families while children receive medical treatment.
“Seeing Canada come together with such heart on my first McHappy Day was truly moving. To every guest who purchased their favourites, and to our franchisees and their crews who made the day so special–thank you,” said Annemarie Swijtink, President and CEO of McDonald’s Canada.
“You have shown the incredible positive impact we can create when we unite for families in our communities.”
McDonald’s Canada said this year’s campaign brings the total amount raised through McHappy Day over the past 32 years to more than $122.1 million for Ronald McDonald House and other local children’s charities.
The company said Ronald McDonald House programs operate at 37 locations across Canada, including 16 Ronald McDonald Houses and 21 in-hospital Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms.
According to the organization, the programs support tens of thousands of families annually by helping them stay close to a child receiving medical care.
The organization said funding raised through McHappy Day helps maintain services intended to reduce financial and logistical pressures on families during treatment periods.
“Over the past 45 years, more than 536,000 families with critically sick and injured children have turned to Ronald McDonald House as their lifeline of support when it matters most,” said Kate Horton, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Canada.
“McHappy Day is a powerful reflection of the compassionate care and generous spirit in our communities. Thank you to our founding and forever partner, McDonald’s Canada, its franchisees, restaurant teams, and guests for their unwavering support of families from coast-to-coast-to-coast.”
McDonald’s Canada said support for Ronald McDonald House programs continues throughout the year through initiatives including Happy Meal and Caring Cookie purchases, customer donations through round-up programs and coin box contributions.
The company said a portion of proceeds from every Happy Meal and Caring Cookie sold supports Ronald McDonald House programs across Canada.
McDonald’s Canada opened its first Canadian restaurant in Richmond, B.C., in 1967. The company said it now operates about 1,500 restaurants across the country, the majority of which are owned and operated by independent franchisees.
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