Newmarket and Aurora are helping bring smiles to the families of sick children, with $58,420 raised in support of McHappy Day May 8.
Volunteers, staff and customers at McDonald’s Restaurants of P.G. Miller Enterprises Limited raised the amount, representing 17 franchise locations, including in Newmarket and York Region. That funding will be split between the Ronald McDonald House Toronto, Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation maternal and child program and the Mackenzie Health women and child program.
“The incredible generosity of our guests, our employees’ enthusiasm and our local heroes’ support have directly contributed,” owner Peter Miller said in a May 14 letter.
The annual fundraiser sees the fast food chain collect donations, with 10 per cent of every purchase that day also going to the fund. That is then split between Ronald McDonald House and the local area hospital.
Across Canada, more than $8.9 million was raised this year, going to Ronald McDonald House and local charities.
“This year, McDonald’s guests, franchisees and crew showed up like no other,” Miller said.
McHappy Day has now surpassed the $100 million total raised since its Canadian inception in 1977.
"We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we received during McHappy Day this year,” McDonald’s Canada president and CEO Michèle Boudria said in a news release. “McHappy Day has a profound impact on families and children across Canada and would not be possible without the generosity of our guests, crew and franchisees who make this day so special."
Many local dignitaries and organizations participated, with representatives from York Regional Police, Central York Fire Services and Newmarket council.
“We look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come,” Miller said. “Thank you again for showing your enthusiasm and dedication on McHappy Day!”
