The focus is on giving back this Thursday, as McDonald’s restaurants in Cobourg and Port Hope gear up for McHappy Day in support of Five Counties Children’s Centre.
Local owner-operator Lisa Wilson says she’s thrilled to once again partner with the children’s charity, which provides vital therapy services to kids and families in Northumberland County.
“We’re proud to support the work of Five Counties through McHappy Day,” said Wilson. “This is a meaningful way for us to give back to children and families right here in our community.”
On May 8, a portion of proceeds from every menu item sold at McDonald’s locations in Cobourg and Port Hope – whether dine-in, takeout, or drive-thru – will help fund therapy services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language support at Five Counties.
Wilson’s locations have contributed more than $175,000 to children’s health initiatives since 2014. Last year, local McHappy Day support raised a record $30,000, with $22,500 going to Five Counties and the remaining $7,500 to Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Five Counties CEO Scott Pepin says the partnership is an important one. “Lisa and her team are amazing community supporters,” he said. “Funds raised on McHappy Day help kids access life-changing therapy, close to home.”
In 2024, Five Counties served nearly 1,600 children and youth across Northumberland County. This year’s fundraiser also coincides with the charity’s 50th anniversary. According to Wilson, McHappy Day is also celebrating a milestone as Canada’s longest running and largest community charitable initiative.
She says she hopes the community comes out to make 2025 another record-breaking year.
More information about Five Counties Children’s Centre is available at www.fivecounties.on.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
