Making A Difference Together: Canadians give back on McHappy Day® 2017

On May 3rd Canadians came together to help raise over $5.6 million as part of this year's McHappy Day. Proceeds from the yearly event go towards supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) and other local children's charities. The RMHC network of programs in Canada support 30,000 families each year, including the Nemer Family, pictured here. (CNW Group/McDonald's Canada)

More than $5.6 million raised to support families of sick children across Canada and local children's charities

TORONTO, May 8, 2017 /CNW/ - On Wednesday, May 3, 2017 McDonald's® Canada celebrated 40 years of giving through McHappy Day! That means, 40 years of spreading hope and love to Canadian families across the country. Including funds raised from Wednesday's McHappy Day event, McDonald's Canada and its franchisees have raised more than $10.8 million in the past year* for Ronald McDonald Houses and other local children's charities, supporting over 30,000 families at 15 Ronald McDonald Houses and 16 Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in over 440 communities across Canada. It couldn't have been done without the kindness and generosity of McDonald's Canada, its franchisees, and each of its crew and guests on McHappy Day, as well as the numerous events and fundraising efforts throughout the year.

"With the wrap of another successful McHappy Day, Canadian families have another reason to smile," said Cathy Loblaw, President and CEO, RMHC® Canada. "The tremendous outpouring of support from Canadians is simply heart-warming. On behalf of the 30,000 families who stay at Ronald McDonald Houses every year, thank you!"

*May 2016-May 3, 2017

SOURCE McDonald's Canada

Adam Grachnik, McDonald's Canada, [email protected], 416-446-3354; Lindsey Coulter, Weber Shandwick, [email protected]; McDonald's Media Relations Line, [email protected], 1-877-786-3342