Cam Binnie has a simple philosophy: you give back where you do business.
With that in mind, the long lines outside the Santa Maria Boulevard location held a special meaning today, as the longtime local McDonald’s franchisee celebrated his latest McHappy Day.
“I still get chills,” said Binnie, who began working with the fast food chain as a teenager and now owns numerous sites across Milton and Mississauga – two of which he recently sold to daughter Hannah. “We’re so blessed to do business here and to be able to give back to such special causes like the (Milton) hospital and Ronald McDonald House Charities.”
A portion of the proceeds from today’s sale of single menu items at all four Milton McDonald’s will go to the Milton District Hospital Foundation – specifically to replace the hospital’s aging CT scanner.
“Days like this are critical for the generosity of franchisees like Cam,” said longtime MDHF chair Brian Penman, referring to how the government only pays for the bricks and mortar part of healthcare and that all equipment needs rely on fundraising.
Hoping today's proceeds equal or surpass the $10,500 brought in last year, MDHF executive director Katie McMillian said, “Whether it’s something as small as an IV stand or a CT scanner, it’s all essential pieces in the role of caring for the community.”
A small army of volunteers joined McDonald’s staff today, from dignitaries and first responders to local dance troupes and Pathfinders.
Among those pitching in, Paul Medeiros – who met Binnie through his work with the CIBC franchise program – has been a McHappy Day volunteer for 15 years.
“It’s an opportunity to give back… and what a cause,” he said while handing out coupon books amidst the buzz of the lunch rush.
Added Binnie, “It’s a cool day. The staff get excited, everyone comes out and we raise a ton of money. It’s great because the hospital is right up the road; they’re our customers.”