McDonald’s offering free ‘Thank You Meals’ to health care workers, first responders

McDonald’s will begin offering free meals to health care workers and first responders Wednesday as a token of appreciation, the restaurant announced Tuesday.

Called “Thank You Meals,” the meals will be available during breakfast, lunch and dinner to “frontline heroes” who show their work badge or are in uniform, McDonald’s said.

“Our restaurants have always been a place for the community to come together and share everyday feel-good moments with family, friends and neighbors,” said Vicki Chancellor, an Atlanta-based owner/operator. “And, now during times like this, it’s more important than ever for our restaurants to continue to serve and help the communities that have supported us for so long.”

Breakfast options will include a choice of an egg McMuffin, chicken McGriddle or a bacon, egg and cheese biscuit, along with a hash brown and a soft drink, tea or hot coffee.

Lunch and dinner offerings will be a choice of a double cheeseburger, 6-piece chicken McNuggets or a Filet-O-Fish with an order of small fries and any soft drink, tea or hot coffee.

The free meals will be offered from April 22 to May 5 through drive-thru or carry out. They will each be served in a Happy Meal box and a note of appreciation will be included, the company said.

“We have been inspired by the way our franchisees have been going above and beyond to support their local communities throughout this trying time,” said Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald’s USA. “I couldn’t be more proud of how our company, franchisees and supplier partners have come together to give back to those who are working tirelessly for our country. That is truly our McDonald’s system at its best.”

This story was originally published April 21, 2020 at 10:55 AM.