RONALD McDonald House Charities called on Australians to dig deep celebrating McHappy Day last Saturday.
For the first year, South East Street Machines (SESM) members shook the bucket at both the Penola Road and Jubilee Highway East facilities, helping to raise funds with their own unique twist.
The idea began when SESM member Shaun Dunford approached McDonald’s after experiencing the benefits of the foundation’s facilities first-hand earlier this year.
“I approached McDonald’s in March as my son was ill and we were absolutely blown away by what was on offer,” Mr Dunford told The Border Watch on Saturday.
“A lot of people in the South East end up in Adelaide for unplanned medical treatment and suddenly have nowhere to stay.
“We just wanted to give back and as a member of the SESM club I asked other members if they wanted to get some cars together, help out and collect money.”
Nearly $6000 dollar was raised from both McDonald’s facilities with over $600 coming from the car club’s participation.
Eleven vehicles were on display at the McDonald’s restaurants and 11 club members volunteered their time to collect the money.
“Quite a few people have had a look, especially kids, which is important as McHappy Day is about the kids,” Mr Dunford said.
“One car here today is Scott McKinnon’s, who allowed me to drive his car out of the goodness of his heart as he is in Loxton.
“All the money we raise here today will go to the Ronald McDonald House in North Adelaide, along with funds raised at all other South Australian McDonald’s restaurants.”
SESM member Maxine Pickrell was present on the day and helped organise the event.
“I was more than happy to help out as I have had personal experience with the house in Melbourne,” she said.
“When my nephew was born, he had to spend six months in Melbourne with his family and I do not know what they would have done without the foundation.
“They supply everything, give a home and provide comfort to parents of children and the children themselves that need it.”
Mr Dunford believes the event will be discussed in an upcoming meeting on how the club can further its involvement.
“It is just one of those things where you do not realise how many people you know end up using the facilities,” he said.
