York Regional Police officers, Central York Fire Services personnel, and Town of Newmarket councillors were among many volunteers who took time out of their day for today's McHappy Day at Newmarket McDonald's restaurants.
Proceeds from menu items sold at McDonald's today will support the Ronald McDonald House Charities and Southlake Regional Health Centre.
“Every single penny that we get into our foundation makes a difference to our patients and families every single day,” said Derek McNally, executive vice-president of clinical services and chief operating officer for Southlake Regional Health Care Centre. “We have equipment needs throughout the organization. This money will go to the foundation, and the money the foundation gets will pay for much-needed equipment for all of our units and patients that come to our hospital.”
Mayor John Taylor showed his support at McDonald's at Yonge and Eagle Streets. He was joined by councillors Christina Bisanz, Trevor Morrison and Kelly Broome helping out throughout the day.
NewmarketToday reporter Joseph Quigley did his part selling socks with McDonald’s staff in support of McHappy Day.
Over at the restaurant at Davis Drive and Leslie Street, members of Central York Fire Services and York Regional Police helped out at the drive-thru and behind the counter in the store.
Residents and visitors from afar came out to show their support. Drive-thru lines were busy at both locations throughout the day, and customers were lined up.
Ida Polifron and Joyce Carniel visited McDonald's on Davis to purchase coffee.
“I think it is great. There should be more people that do it,” said Carniel. “I think Ronald McDonald House is a great idea. There are not a lot of places like that that help people in need.”
McNally said the hospital does not receive funding for capital equipment as part of its operating budget.
“We rely heavily on our foundation and community partners to raise money and buy that equipment and technology that is needed for the hospital to run smoothly,” said McNally. “Our foundation is mission critical to the success of our organization and for raising the funds required to buy the equipment and technology for our patients and families”
McHappy Day continues for the rest of the day and you can still take part by ordering any menu item in the restaurant, in the drive-thru, or through delivery apps with all proceeds of the day going to charities.
