I am pretty sure there aren’t too many people who haven’t heard about McHappy Day, which will be celebrating it’s 19th year of raising money for Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities (RMCH).
So why do big companies like McDonald’s do something like this? This is perhaps one of their biggest days of the year, where McDonalds, their employees and partners get together to raise money and awareness for RMCH. Does it help them look good in the community, sure? But does it help raise a lot money? Absolutely – in 2011 they raised $3.4 million.
And, McDonald’s Canada covers all of RMHC Canada’s administrative and operating costs, making it possible for 100 per cent of every directly donated dollar to go to Ronald McDonald Houses and their programs.
And who doesn’t want to have a local celebrity serve them up a burger?
On a more personal note, I have a child who has been hospitalized for a serious illness, I have family members who have children hospitalized for childhood cancer treatment, and I have a family friend who spent time with her sick child at a Ronald McDonald House. I know how traumatic it is when children get sick. I know how important it is to have support and comfort during one of the most confusing and emotionally draining experiences of life.
That is why, each year on McHappy Day, I go to McDonalds, with my very healthy son, knowing that my purchase will help to fund Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities.
And I encourage everyone I know to do the same. It is so easy to do – $1 from every Big Mac® sandwich, Happy Meal® and hot McCafé® beverage* sold will go to local children’s charities such as Ronald McDonald Houses.
So, next Wednesday, May 2nd, please visit your local McDonalds and help make a difference. Or, visit Ronald McDonald House Charities to make a donation.