Shane Jennings launches McHappy Day
RMHC, the independent charity that funds and operates Ronald McDonald House accommodation for parents of sick children in the grounds of Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin, has launched McHappy Day 2012. 58 families in Meath have benefited from RMHC's facilities over the past eight years while a total of 2,200 families nationwide have stayed in the House. McHappy Day is RMHC's national fundraiser and will take place on Saturday, 24th November. McDonald's Restaurants of Ireland and Owner Operators nationwide are showing their support for the charity with €1 being donated from every Big Mac sold on the day. RMHC will also be selling festive Santa hats in McDonald's restaurants nationwide from 24th November until 5th December. All proceeds raised will go to The Ronald McDonald House. With running costs of €300,000 a year, the charity receives no funding or financial support from either the hospital or the Government and relies on fundraising and donations to be able to continue to provide a 'home away from home' for over 2,200 families to date from across Ireland. Leinster and Ireland rugby star and Board Member of RMHC Shane Jennings today said: "Ronald McDonald House is an important resource for parents who are caring for children who are seriously ill. Having to be out of home for long periods of time to be close to their children can cause major stress emotionally and financially, this is where RMHC steps in. The idea is simple, nothing else should matter when a family is focused on healing their child." Marian Carroll, Volunteer CEO of the RMHC said: "McHappy Day is our biggest annual fundraiser where all proceeds will go directly to the Ronald McDonald House. RMHC receives no government funding, relying on support of the public and fundraising initiatives to keep this important facility in operation. This Saturday, for one day only, McDonald's will donate €1 to RMHC for every Big Mac sold, so go on treat yourself! Every euro helps and we are calling on the public to show support and get down to your local McDonald's in Meath this Saturday. McHappy Day Santa hats will also be on sale for €2 for a limited time only in restaurants nationwide." RMHC is an independent charity run by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Charity.