In appreciation for the healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics who are committed to our health and safety, fast-food chain, McDonald’s will offer free Thank You Meals, between Wednesday, 22 April and Tuesday, 5 May, as a token of appreciation for their selfless service.
Whilst the majority of America is staying home, McDonald’s has remained open, with our franchisees and hardworking restaurant employees serving hot meals to communities who need quick and affordable options, especially those on the frontlines such as healthcare workers and first responders. The company is grateful for the ongoing dedication and commitment of McDonald’s employees who enable McDonald’s to stay open to serve our communities during these challenging times.
Each Thank You Meal will be available at no charge via drive-thru or carry out at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide through 5 May. The Thank You Meal, available during breakfast, lunch or dinner, will feature a choice of sandwiches, drinks, and a side featuring small World Famous Fries or a Hash Brown, along with a note of appreciation.
It will be served in McDonald’s iconic Happy Meal box, in the hopes of bringing a smile along with delicious food. Day or night, these frontline heroes can simply show their work badge, or be in uniform, to receive their free meals.
“We have been inspired by the way our franchisees have been going above and beyond to support their local communities throughout this trying time,” said Joe Erlinger, President, McDonald’s USA. “I couldn’t be more proud of how our company, franchisees and supplier partners have come together to give back to those who are working tirelessly for our country. That is truly our McDonald’s system at its best.”
Serving these brave men and women would not be possible without McDonald’s dedicated and unwavering restaurant employees, who are also doing their part to help during this time. McDonald’s employees are the heart of the business, and their health and safety has been and will continue to be, the company’s top priority.
McDonald’s has implemented nearly 50 new safety measures to ensure the well-being of its employees and is continuing to explore additional safety steps in accordance with guidance issued by local and national health authorities including the CDC.
“Emergency physicians and other health care workers on the frontlines are spending hours a day on their feet, often missing meals in their efforts to care for their patients,” said Dr William Jaquis, President of The American College of Emergency Physicians. “McDonald’s Thank You Meal is a much-appreciated gesture for those risking their lives each day to take a break with a hot meal amidst the turbulence.”
During past times of national crisis, McDonald’s has helped and served communities in need, from donating funds to disaster relief efforts to providing food for those impacted by natural disasters. McDonald’s commitment to feeding the nation’s healthcare workers and first responders throughout the current pandemic is a continuation of that dedication. Additionally, McDonald’s local franchises have also been working throughout this crisis to support the thousands of communities their restaurants call home.
“Our restaurants have always been a place for the community to come together and share everyday feel-good moments with family, friends and neighbours,” said Vicki Chancellor, an Atlanta-based Owner/Operator and chair of McDonald’s Operator’s National Advertising Committee. “And, now during times like this, it’s more important than ever for our restaurants to continue to serve and help the communities that have supported us for so long.”
