Ottawa Senators Are Flipping Burgers for Charity
Ottawa hockey fans have a delicious reason to hit up their local McDonald's this year — the Ottawa Senators are participating in the 32nd annual McHappy Day, McDonald's beloved charity fundraiser that turns everyday menu purchases into donations for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).
McHappy Day is one of Canada's most recognized restaurant charity events. On a single designated day each year, a portion of every purchase made at participating McDonald's locations is donated to RMHC, which provides free or subsidized housing and support for families with seriously ill children receiving hospital treatment. Over its 32-year history, the event has raised tens of millions of dollars for families when they need it most.
Why It Matters for Ottawa Families
Ronald McDonald House Ottawa plays a vital role in the local community. Located near the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), it provides a home away from home for families who travel to Ottawa — or who live right here in the city — while their children undergo medical treatment.
Having the Senators involved brings a massive spotlight to the cause. Ottawa is a hockey-mad city, and when the team rallies behind a community initiative, fans listen. Whether it's players making appearances, social media shoutouts, or simply encouraging fans to stop in on McHappy Day, the Senators' participation can meaningfully boost donations and awareness.
How You Can Help
Participating is as easy as it gets. On McHappy Day:
- Head to any participating Ottawa-area McDonald's location
- Order anything from the menu — Big Mac, McFlurry, McCafé latte, you name it
- A portion of your purchase automatically goes to Ronald McDonald House Charities
You don't need to do anything special — just show up and eat. It's one of those rare occasions where treating yourself to fries genuinely helps a family in need.
A Legacy of Giving
The fact that this is the 32nd McHappy Day speaks to how deeply this event has embedded itself in Canadian culture. What started as a one-day fundraiser has grown into a national moment of community generosity, with NHL teams, celebrities, and local businesses all pitching in to amplify the message.
For the Senators, community involvement is nothing new. The organization has long supported Ottawa-area charities through the Ottawa Senators Foundation, and McHappy Day is a natural extension of that commitment — accessible, fun, and family-friendly.
Mark Your Calendar
Check the Ottawa Senators' official channels and your local McDonald's for the exact date of this year's McHappy Day. Given how fast these events get buzz on social media, you'll likely see reminders across your feeds as the day approaches.
So next time you're debating whether to cook or grab fast food — let McHappy Day make the decision easy. Your McNuggets are doing double duty this year.
Source: Ottawa Senators / NHL.com via Google News
