McHappy Day is returning to Simcoe on May 6th, with local McDonald’s owner-operator Ellen Carew saying the annual fundraiser continues to be one of the most important days of the year for both the restaurant and the community.
It is a day to support Ronald McDonald House Charities and our local Simcoe Special Olympic athletes – that could be getting a Big Mac or adding an item to your wardrobe by purchasing the massively popular socks.
Ronald McDonald House provides accommodation, meals, and emotional support for families with seriously ill or injured children receiving care at nearby hospitals, including facilities in Hamilton.
Carew says that support is especially meaningful in rural communities like Norfolk County, where families often must travel for care.
She also spoke about how McHappy Day has grown into an annual community gathering in Simcoe, with local organizations, service groups, and returning volunteers playing a major role in its success.
Carew knows the day will be busy.
With that, she did provide some tips.
In addition to all that is going on that day, everyone will have a chance to try something new as well.
Nationally, McHappy Day raised $11.3 million last year, and Carew says the goal is to exceed that total in 2026, both nationally and locally.
A growing part of McHappy Day outreach includes local schools, with Waterford Public, Lynndale, West Lynn, and Bloomsburg all participating this year.
McDonald’s staff deliver meals and activities directly to classrooms as part of the campaign.
