Behind the Window for McHappy Day 2025: Flipping the Script to Support Families

There are many ways to serve the community — and this week, I had the unique chance to do it from behind a drive-thru window.

To mark McHappy Day 2025, I stepped into a role I don’t usually get to play: taking orders and handing out Happy Meals at the McDonald’s on 2170 Montreal Road. It might not have been my usual desk or committee room, but for a few hours, I traded potholes and policy for burgers and Big Macs — all in support of an incredible cause.

Each year, McHappy Day raises funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities and CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario). These organizations are more than just names — they’re vital supports for families facing some of the hardest days of their lives. Whether it’s helping parents stay close to their children while they receive care at CHEO, or providing a warm, welcoming place to stay during long hospital visits, these charities make a meaningful impact right here in our community.

It’s a simple idea — grab a coffee, a meal, or a treat — and turn that everyday moment into something powerful. On McHappy Day, every bite helps fund programs that bring comfort, care, and connection when it matters most.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the hardworking and welcoming team at McDonald’s on Montreal Road. They ran a tight ship — and somehow found the patience to guide me through a crash course in drive-thru operations. From the headset to the hand-offs, I tried my best to keep things running smoothly. And if you received a McFlurry with a side of zoning bylaws… well, you got the full experience.

It was also an honour to be joined by District Chief Bob Rainboth from Ottawa Fire Services. His presence reminded us that community support doesn’t just happen during emergencies — it’s a value lived every day. The Fire Services team continues to be a pillar of strength, care, and commitment in our city, and having Chief Rainboth there brought a real sense of community solidarity to the event.

Throughout the morning, residents rolled through the drive-thru with smiles, waves, and kind words — not just for me, but for the cause. It was a steady stream of generosity, and a reminder of just how much heart this community has.

McHappy Day 2025 was a chance to connect, to give back, and to show up for the families who need it most. I’m proud to have played a small part in that — and deeply thankful to everyone who made it happen.