Since it began, McHappy Day has raised nearly $51 million for Ronald McDonald Houses and local Canadian children’s charities.
And McDonald’s restaurants across Canada staged the 23rd annual McHappy Day earlier this week (May 4).
One dollar from every Big Mac, Happy Meal and hot McCafe beverage sold will go towards these charities.
“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,” said John Betts, president and chief executive officer of McDonald’s Canada.
“By supporting families and children in need, we remain committed to being a good neighbour in thousands of local communities across the country.”
This one-day fundraising event supports local children’s charities, as well as the 13 family rooms and 14 Ronald McDonald Houses across Canada that together provide comfort and care to more than 20,000 families each year as their children are treated a nearby hospital.
As part of these celebrations, athletes, media personalities, local dignitaries and celebrities will be working hand-in-hand with McDonald’s restaurant teams and franchisees to raise donations.
“Research shows that sick children heal faster when their families are beside them, and this wouldn’t be possible without the support of McDonald’s and their guests,” said Cathy Loblaw, president and CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada.
McHappy Day was established in 1977 — it was not an annual event at first — by George Cohon, the founder of McDonald’s Canada and Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada.
“As we approach our 23rd McHappy Day in Canada, our original vision of connecting communities remains,” Cohon said.
“McHappy Day is a way for all of us to unite in smiles and support of our fellow families and children.”