McHappy Day fundraiser supports MSH Ronald McDonald Family Room
When a child is seriously ill or injured, families are often forced to leave everything behind to access the medical care their child urgently needs. In those overwhelming moments, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) offers more than just a place to stay — it offers comfort, community, and the chance to be close to what matters most.
RMHC Toronto is an 81-bedroom House located just steps from the hospital, providing a place like home for families during some of the hardest days of their lives. It eases the emotional and financial burden by offering accommodations and support — made possible by generous donors and fundraising events like McHappy Day. Within hospitals, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, like the one at Markham Stouffville Hospital, provide a peaceful refuge where parents can rest and regroup without leaving their child’s side.
This year marks the 31st anniversary of McHappy Day, McDonald’s signature national fundraising event, happening on Thursday, May 8.
Locally, Marcia and Todd Finlayson — owners and operators of several McDonald’s restaurants — have been passionate champions of RMHC. In 2013, they helped establish the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Markham Stouffville Hospital, which has supported more than 1,400 families since its opening. Their restaurant teams, customers, and local fundraising group have raised over $2 million for RMHC since then.
“I’ve been with McDonald’s for 48 years, and giving back is truly in the DNA of the Golden Arches—whether you’re a crew member or a franchisee,” said Marcia Finlayson.
“Thanks to our incredible local community, we’ve been the number one fundraising owner/operator organization in Canada for McHappy Day for several years,” she adds.
This year, on May 8, VIPs and community leaders will be joining staff behind the counter to help serve up smiles — and surpass last year’s fundraising total.
Whether you stop in with the whole family or just grab a coffee on the go, every visit counts. The Finlaysons will be donating 10 per cent of all sales that day to RMHC.
Looking for an easy way to support the cause? Pick up a $5 McHappy Day coupon booklet, which includes over $15 in savings on popular menu items. These booklets sell out fast, so grab yours in advance. Can’t make it on the day? You can receive a McHappy Day heart by donating $2, $5, or $10, or you might be interested in purchasing this year’s limited-edition socks featuring beloved McDonald’s characters.
To learn more or to donate, visit rmhctoronto.ca.
Photo: Todd and Marcia Finlayson (left) with local dignitaries at a previous McHappy Day in Stouffville.