If you have ever had a sick child and have had to be away from family and friends for extended periods of time, I probably don’t have to tell you how valuable an organization like the Ronald McDonald House is. The Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada offer families the ability to stay together in the event of a child’s illness and treatment. Rather than be burdened with housing issues, families are able to concentrate on their children and make important health decisions, lasting memories and final moments. Not only does RMHC offer them a roof over their heads, they also have volunteers who run errands, and take care of day-to-day essentials so that parents can commit all of their time to their child’s needs.

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There is currently 14 houses from coast-to-coast and last year alone the charity was able to assist 10,000 families. Some of the Ronald McDonald Houses also operate a Ronald McDonald Family Room within the walls of partnering hospitals. These are spaces that allow for peace and calm away from the pressures of the hospital, while still letting parents be just steps away from their child.

On Wednesday May 7th, show your support for McHappy Day to help kids and their families in your community. For every Big Mac, Happy Meal, or hot beverage from McCafe purchased on May 7th, McDonald’s will donate one dollar to Ronald McDonald Houses and other neighborhood children’s charities across Canada.

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Fun Facts

* Last year 402,802 Big Macs were sold on McHappy Day.

*Parents bought their kids 709,907 Happy Meals!

*207,246 is the amount of hot beverages sold in McCafe to benefit this outstanding organization!

To find the closest McDonald’s location to you, please visit their website. You can also find more information, volunteering opportunities and inspirational stories at Ronald McDonald House Charities  We leave you with a video message that will hopefully make you care enough to lend your support. Remember: May 7th, 2014 is McHappy Day!