This past Wednesday was McHappy Day at McDonald’s stores across Saskatchewan which benefits Ronald McDonald’s Children’s Charities in our province. Items such as socks, sunglasses, pins, and bandanas were sold as a fundraiser in addition to proceeds from the sales of Big Macs, McCafe, and Happy Meals.

“It’s such a great opportunity to really highlight our partnership with McDonald’s and all the crews and donors who never fail to support our cause at Ronald McDonald House and families,” proclaimed Marcelline Zimmer, President and COO Of Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities Saskatchewan.

620 CKRM’s Cody Glydon and Nick Kaczmar at McHappy day with volunteers

The official totals are still being counted from the event this week, but Zimmer feels optimistic about the numbers. The role of Ronald McDonald House is to provide housing in a stress free, comfortable manner for families while they support their sick child.

“When families do have a sick child, they can face catastrophic financial challenges and our mission is really to support and wrap our arms around that family by providing accommodations, meals, and, more importantly, a safe and comfortable space where they can decompress and really just focus on the health of their sick child,” Zimmer said.

Currently Saskatoon is the only city in Saskatchewan to have a Ronald McDonald House, but that may change in the near future as plans are underway to build a 20 room house in Regina and a 12 room house in Prince Albert. The corner of Scarth Street and 15th Ave in Regina’s downtown has been selected as the future home of a Ronald McDonald House in Regina.

“This is a house that is long overdue. We feel really happy to be able to support the families in Regina and in southern Saskatchewan,” stated Zimmer.

She added that several steps need to fall into place before they can announce a construction date but are expecting to make further announcements regarding the new house later this spring and early this fall.