Aldershot McDonald's celebrates 30 years of McHappy Day

McHappy Day is upon us, and with that comes another opportunity for local residents to support Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).

The festivities got off to a good start at the Aldershot McDonalds on Plains Road this morning, with balloons, costumed characters and brightly coloured merchandise.

RMHC of Southern Central Ontario board member Ryan Sgro, who owns nine McDonald's restaurants in Burlington and Waterdown, along with RMHC Southern Central Ontario CEO Mario De Divitiis, also joined in the fun and helped deliver food to waiting customers. 

Ronald McDonald Houses provide a place for families to stay nearby while their children are receiving hospital care. A portion of the proceeds from every menu item sold today (May 8) support RMHC and families with sick children. 

This year's goal for Sgro's nine stores is to raise $200,000. Last year they raised $172,000, which was the second highest in Canada. All proceeds go to Ronald McDonald House at McMaster Children's Hospital in Hamilton. Funds come from all of today's sales, along with the 'round-up' program that has been ongoing the last couple of months.

"Across Canada, the impact of McHappy Day is felt every day by families who rely on RMHC to stay close to their sick child during the most unexpected and challenging time in their lives," said Kate Horton, RMHC Canada's president and CEO. "While the impact of our national mission is far-reaching, the need for RMHC is great and growing.”

Now in its 30th year, McHappy Days have raised more than $92.5 million to date for RMHC and other charities across the country.