McHappy Day Cape Breton sets new record

Monday June 09, 2025

McDonald’s Owner Wayne Kennerknecht and his son Justin (back left of Grimace) surrounded by his McDonald’s team and Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation team members on McHappy Day 2025.

McHappy Day was held across the country one month ago on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Locally, a portion of proceeds from McDonald’s restaurants (Sydney, Glace Bay, Walmart Spar Road, Sydney River, Membertou, and North Sydney) were directed toward the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation

McDonald’s teams hosted two 50/50 draws in lead-up to the event, and sold apparel, cake, and balloons day-of. These efforts, combined with a portion of proceeds from all menu items purchased during McHappy Day and generous donations made by community members, led to a record-breaking fundraiser: $104,000.00 raised for the Cape Breton Reigonal Hospital Foundation.

Proceeds will allow the Foundation to purchase a Centralized Monitoring System for the Pediatric Unit, as well as two ultrasounds for the Renal Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

“All things are possible if you have the right pieces of equipment to save lives, says Wayne Kennerknecht, Owner, McDonald’s Cape Breton. “With the money we raised this year, we are able to purchase three pieces of life saving equipment to support the experts in providing better health care, here at home, in Cape Breton.”

Along with a full staffing component from McDonald’s teams, more than 100 volunteers lined drive-throughs, collected donations, and helped to bring energy and joy to McHappy Day 2025.

Candice MacLeod volunteers at the newly opened Membertou McDonald’s. Candice was also the winner of one of two 50/50 draws in support of McHappy Day 2025, and she graciously donated her winnings back to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation: $3,182

“McHappy Day is always one of our favorite days, and this year’s was no different!” says Caitlyn MacDonald, Manager of Philanthropy. “To witness the tireless efforts and dedication of owner Wayne Kennerknecht and his family – Gail, Justin and Michelle – along with their incredible team led by Faith Bennett and General Manager Corey Hingley is truly inspiring. They set a lofty goal, and they surpassed it. Their compassion for health care and our community is evident, and we are so grateful for their support and friendship.”

With this year’s record-breaking total, local McDonald’s and McHappy Day efforts have now contributed more than $619,000.00 to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation.

Thank you to everyone who supported McHappy Day 2025, our Foundation, and health care in Cape Breton.