Everyone should be McHappy

Pop star Ricki Lee helping out at McHappy Day.

RONALD McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is encouraging Noosa residents to join a different kind of charity run this Saturday, by doing a ‘Macca’s run’ for McHappy Day’s 25th Anniversary.
Locals can support seriously ill children and their families by heading into McDonald’s Noosaville and either buying a Big Mac, a Helping Hand for $2, a pair of Ronald Socks for $3, or making a donation.
Two dollars from every Big Mac and proceeds from Helping Hands and Ronald Socks will go towards McHappy Day’s $3.8 million fund-raising target to support RMHC’s essential programs and services, which have so far helped over 120,000 Australian families.
“A ‘Macca’s run’ is ingrained in Aussie culture, whether it’s dropping into Macca’s to pick up some burgers for your colleagues or going through the drive thru with a bunch of mates, it’s a catch phrase most Aussies are familiar with,” said local licensee, Gary Binet, from McDonald’s Noosaville.
“This Saturday you can make your Macca’s run count, by getting together with some friends or family and supporting McHappy Day. There are a number of ways to support in McDonald’s restaurants, from buying a Big Mac to making a donation.
“Or if you can’t make it in person, you can simply go online to donate. Every donation, large or small, has a positive effect on families faced with a child’s serious illness.”
Ronald McDonald Houses are attached to major women’s or children’s hospitals and provide accommodation for families with a seriously ill child while they are receiving treatment.
Raising funds on McHappy Day will help more families stay close together at one of the toughest times in their lives and continue to provide families with a home away from home.
“The power of family closeness is a driving factor in the work of RMHC and this year’s fund-raising goal equates to providing around 28,000 nights for Australian families at one of the 16 Ronald McDonald Houses across Australia,” said Barbara Ryan, CEO for Ronald McDonald Charities.
For those who can’t do a Macca’s run in person, donations can be made online at www.rmhc.org.au/mchappyday