The 31st annual McHappy Day was held yesterday, a one-day fundraiser organized by McDonald's Canada and its independent franchisees, directing a portion of proceeds from all food and beverage menu items to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) and other local children’s charities.
The community of Weyburn and area helped to raise $6,490 in just one day!
Farrokh Javanmardi, Manager of Weyburn's McDonalds Restaurant, said this was an outstanding success.
"McHappy Day is a long-standing Canadian tradition and is at the heart of who we are and what we do at McDonald's Canada. For more than 40 years, McDonald's Canada has been a proud supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada. With your help, we were able to support Canadian children and their families."
The funds raised today go directly towards providing essential support to families staying with RMHC across Canada including accommodations, food, mental health and wellness support, and so much more while their child is receiving medical treatment.
The following is an excerpt from an article originally published on McHappy Day:
One in four Canadians has either been supported by RMHC or they know someone who has. That is the sentiment of Weyburn's Mayor Jeff Richards, who was helping out at the McDonald's restaurant in Weyburn today to support the cause.
"That's what really brings us out and brings us together as a community, is that opportunity to support great organizations like Ronald McDonald House. Many of us and our families have been touched by the good work that Ronald McDonald House does. So we're happy to be here today."
Leah Turcotte is the Facility Manager at the Ronald McDonald House in Saskatoon.
"McDonald's is our biggest financial supporter. They give about 25 or 28 per cent of our annual budget. Last year alone, I believe they gave over $260,000."
Kelly Humphrey is with Human Resources for RMHC.
"A big thanks to McDonald's, always a big thanks to McDonald's and the crew for putting the effort out to help support this day and to the community for coming together and supporting Ronald McDonald House. The volunteers that come in through the doors, the Mayor, anybody, the police services, whoever, coming through to help support the day."
The 16 Ronald McDonald House® programs provide out-of-town families with a place to stay together with the support and resources they need, while the 19 Ronald McDonald Family Room® programs give families a space to rest & recharge inside the hospital, steps away from their child.
With a portion of the proceeds from all menu items going to a worthy cause, this is a deliciously, easy way to make a difference in the lives of families with sick or injured children, knowing your contribution is helping to bring smiles and happiness to those who need it most.
Over the past 30 McHappy Day events, more than $100 million has been raised through McHappy Day in support of children and families in local communities across Canada, helping nearly half a million families with sick children.