McDonald's Employees Reopen Restaurant To Feed 2 Hungry Girls

SARASOTA, FL — Two Florida McDonald's employees got an unexpected public shout out from the Sarasota police department this week when they opened up their hearts — and the doors to the closed restaurant — to help two hungry children.

Police found the two girls, ages 4 and 8, in the backseat of their father's car outside the fast food restaurant at 787 N. Washington Blvd.

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"The driver, their father, was asleep at the wheel," according to Sarasota police, who said that the incident happened around 1 a.m. Monday morning.

"Officers learned the two girls had not eaten or been able to use the restroom. McDonald's already closed the restaurant for the night," Sarasota police said. "Officers explained the situation to the two employees inside who were cleaning. The two employees stopped what they were doing, started up all the machines and gave the two young girls anything they wanted to eat, allowed them to use the restroom and stuffed their Happy Meals with toys."

Not only that, police said the McDonald's employees would not allow the police officers to use their own money to pay for the food.

"Again, to the two McDonald's employees, who went above and beyond, you are two of the many reasons it's an honor to continue to serve and protect such an incredible city," police lauded. "Thank you."

The girls were released to family members and their father is facing charges of DUI and child neglect, according to Sarasota police.

Photo by David Allen/Patch