McDonald's Offers Free 'Thank You Meals' To First Responders

CHICAGO — McDonald's will provide free "Thank You Meals" to first responders and health care workers who show their badge when they order by drive thru or for carry out, the restaurant said Tuesday. The offer runs from April 22 to May 5 and includes a selection of Egg McMuffin, Chicken McGriddle or bacon, egg and cheese biscuit for breakfast, along with hash browns and a drink, or double cheeseburger, McNuggets or Filet-O-Fish for lunch or dinner, along with small fries and a drink.

The restaurant chain, which has its global headquarters in Chicago, closed its dining rooms in response to the coronavirus pandemic in March, but it continues to serve customers via drive thru and carry out.

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"While the majority of America is staying home, McDonald's has remained open, with our fanchisees and hardworking restaurant employees serving hot meals to communities who need quick and affordable options, especially those on the frontlines such as healthcare workers and first responders," the global fast-food chain said in a news release. "The company is grateful for the ongoing dedication and commitment of McDonald's employees who enable McDonald's to stay open to serve our communities during these challenging times."

McDonald's says the Thank You Meals will be served in the restaurant's iconic Happy Meal box, but instead of a toy, each meal will come with a note of appreciation.

The restaurant chain says it is taking steps to ensure the health of customers and employees amid the coronavirus pandemic, including by increasing the availability of hand sanitizer, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, encouraging hourly hand-washing, implementing contactless operations, requiring the use of gloves in food preparation, installing protective panels on counters and in drive-thrus and using floor decals to encourage social distancing.

Company-owned restaurants also began providing paid sick leave in March, but franchisees are not required to do so, the company said.

Thank You Meals are not available through McDelivery, Uber Eats or DoorDash and are limited to one per customer per day. Customers must order in person at the drive thru window or at the counter for carry out, and the meals can't be substituted or customized.

Find more information here.