The partnership between McDonald’s Corporation and Ronald McDonald House Charities and its programs dates back to the inception of the charitable organization. When an unlikely partnership was formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, between an NFL team, a children’s hospital and McDonald’s, none of its members could have imagined that their dream of a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill children would grow to become an international phenomenon. Since saying yes to the mission of RMHC in 1974, McDonald’s has been our founding and forever mission partner.
Locally, RMHC of the Bluegrass has had a 40-year partnership with local owner and operators, crew members and suppliers who have shared their time, talent, and treasurer with RMHC, ensuring no family has to face a medical crisis alone. Members of the McDonald’s Family serve as volunteers, Board and Committee members, donors, and ambassadors for RMHC.
To generate funds, local McDonald’s stores participate in special promotions and in-store events throughout the year. In addition to in-store fundraising efforts, McDonald’s franchisees sponsor many of our events and help raise awareness through media partnerships. 100% of donations from McDonald’s help support the work of RMHC – it is an honor to work alongside of McDonald’s and see their value of service and community come to life in the partnership with RMHC.
Round-Up
The Round-Up program began in Kentucky in 2021 and has increased exponentially each year, showcasing the generosity of McDonald’s customers and the hard work of McDonald’s employees. Every dollar raised through Round-Up in Central Kentucky directly supports RMHC of the Bluegrass. In 2024, Round-Up raised over $770,000 to support families finding comfort, care, and a Home away from home in Lexington, providing over 6,100 nights of comfort. Your small change can make a lasting impact for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Round-Up for RMHC?
Round-Up is a 365 day a year national fundraiser that allows McDonald’s customers to donate to RMHC by “Rounding Up” their purchase (after sales tax) to the next whole dollar, regardless of their payment method.
Is Round-Up a tax write off for McDonald's?
No. 100% of all proceeds donated to RMHC through Round-Up directly benefit the work of RMHC. McDonald’s receives no tax benefits or incentives from Round-Up.
How do I Round-Up?
When you visit a McDonald’s in Lexington or the surrounding cities, you can say yes to Rounding Up for RMHC either in the drive-thru, at the register inside, or at the kiosk. If the McDonald’s crew member does not ask you to Round-Up, you can ask them to Round-Up right after you order. All McDonald’s in Kentucky have the ability to Round-Up for RMHC even if they don’t ask.
What does the money from Round-Up go towards?
All donation from Round-Up support our efforts of removing barriers, strengthening families, and promoting healing. We do this at our Ronald McDonald House by providing a comfortable place for families to stay, free dinners every night, and ensuring all families have essential items during their stay.
Which cities in Kentucky support RMHC of the Bluegrass, located in Lexington, through Round-Up?
Liberty, Monticello, Russell Springs, Albany, Edmonton, Columbia, Lexington, Richmond, Somerset, Frankfort, London, Versailles, Manchester, Irvine, Falmouth, Midway, Nicholasville, Stanford, Lancaster, Morehead, Owingsville, Mt. Sterling, Winchester, Stanton, Jackson, Paris, Cynthiana, Danville, Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg
Does McDonald's give to RMHC in other ways?
YES! McDonald’s also supports RMHC through activations like the Shamrock Shake, penny per Happy Meal, and penny per pound of fries. They also sponsor RMHC of the Bluegrass events, and McDonald’s employees volunteer at our House and serve on our Board and Committees. Everyday, McDonald’s graciously chooses to give to RMHC to ensure no family ever walks through a medical crisis alone.