This coming Wednesday, a small, gesture can make a world of difference to a sick child.
On May 11, McDonalds across the country are once again raising funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).
Last year, the Smithers location raised just over $4,500. Smithers franchise owner and operator Shane Doodson was excited for this year, saying the goal is to raise more funds this year. He is confident that they will once again succeed in topping their previous funds raised.
Funds raised in Smithers will go towards the Vancouver Ronald McDonald House, which is doubly exciting this year as they’re currently building one right on the BC Children’s Hospital grounds.
“They’re going to start, hopefully by the end of the year they’ll be breaking ground,” Doodson said. “It’s going to be one of the biggest Houses in Canada.”
It shouldn’t be too hard of a challenge to beat last year though, as this year they’re adding coffee.
“That’s different this year,” Doodson said.
For every Big Mac, Happy Meal, and coffee sold on May 11, they’ll be donating $1 from the sale to the RMHC. As coffee is generally a big sell regardless, it really shouldn’t be a problem beating out the 2010 amount, he said.
As McDonalds is already donating a significant portion to help run administration, every dollar raised goes towards supporting these Houses, which in turn help families stay close to their child while they’re undergoing medical treatment.
To help with the additional demand, there are quite a few volunteers who will be assisting the McDonalds crew on May 11, Doodson noted.
“We’re going to have the RCMP, the fire department, the Peak [radio station] will be there, as will The Interior News,” Doodson said.
In previous years the support has been tremendous, he added, and already they’re selling their paper boots. Hung on the walls of McDonalds, those who donate can visibly show their support.
Since 1977, McDonalds stores have raised over $32 million for Ronald McDonald House Charities projects across Canada. Some of these funds go towards grants in communities where there is a McDonalds restaurant as well, as was the case two years ago, when they donated $25,000 to help out the Child Development Centre here in Smithers.
“That was good, Ronald McDonald was up here for that and everything,” Doodson said. “We get lots of community support.”