McDonald’s Headington restaurant in Oxford recently partnered up with a local charity to host a family fun day. 

The event was held in partnership with Ronald McDonald House to celebrate the charity’s 35th birthday and McDonald’s’ 50th birthday in the UK. 

McDonald’s is a founding and forever partner of the Charity, which has provided vital support to thousands of families across the UK at each of its 14 locations since 1989.

The Houses, located next to specialist NHS children’s hospitals, allow families to be by their child's bedside in a matter of moments, whilst maintaining a degree of normality during very difficult times.

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Parents and children staying at the free accommodation at Oxford House often miss out on celebratory occasions and family gatherings, so the House and its local McDonald’s restaurant joined forces to support families with a day of light relief.

Children were treated to face-painting, activities and games.

As the Charity’s biggest supporter, McDonald’s has helped more than 90,000 families through its ongoing fundraising initiatives.

Vicky Hamilton and partner, Sofie, from Buckinghamshire checked into Ronald McDonald House Oxford on June 1, 2024 due to their daughter Freya being in critical condition and on life support.

Freya was in cardiac and kidney failure leading to the amputation of her arm and large section of torso, and the family have had to stay in the House for more than 70 days.

Vicky said: “Without the House, I genuinely don’t know how we would have got through this.

"The support from the staff is amazing and they really give hope to the children that there is normal life to enjoy, even when they are suffering.

"The staff take the time to get to know the children and make you feel like family.

"So thank you to each and every person involved for giving my daughter and all the other children a really good day.”

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Ismail Anilmis, franchisee of the Headington restaurant, said: “I’m so proud of my crew from Oxford for volunteering to support our local Ronald McDonald House, as the charity celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.

"It’s heart-warming to see the impact of McDonald’s donations and the vital support the Charity provides for families all over the UK.

"We look forward to supporting Oxford House more in the future.”

Celebratory birthday parties are taking place all over the UK, with each of the 14 Ronald McDonald Houses enjoying their own fun-filled occasion supported by the generosity of their local McDonald’s restaurant and crew.

The charity relies on supporters and fundraisers, including McDonald’s customers, without whom it would be unable to continue its vital work.