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McDonald's partners with KaBoom! for children's initiative

August 14, 2012

McDonald's has announced a new partnership with KaBoom!, a national non-profit that promotes play areas within walking distance of every child in the U.S.

McDonald's president and CEO Don Thompson made the announcement Aug. 14 at a playground build at the South Side YMCA in Chicago. The partnership is part of the chain's commitment to children's well-being, according to a release.

In July, McDonald's announced a new "Champions of Play" program, created to encourage a balanced approach to nutrition and activity. The program includes the facilitation of grassroots activities aimed at children ages 6 to 10.

Thompson was joined by Darell Hammond, KaBoom! CEO, Dick Malone, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago CEO, Kate Maehr, CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and more than 200 volunteers who built the community playground. Approximately 600 area children will benefit from the playground.

In addition, The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, a program of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, and operated in partnership with Advocate Hope Children's Hospital, provided health screenings and dental education to children in attendance.

"McDonald's and Ronald McDonald House Charities are committed to serving children and families through community-based programs, especially those like KaBoom!, which emphasize play and a welcoming environment," Thompson said. "This partnership is about working together with the community to create something lasting and impactful for future generations."

The Greater Chicago Food Depository, in conjunction with the YMCA, will help provide nutritious meals and other children-related programming after the construction of the playground.

The first "Play Day" at the newly-built playground will take place Aug. 24. The YMCA, the Greater Chicago Food Depository and McDonald's will be on-site to provide meals, activities and programming for attendees. Advocate Hope Children's Hospital will provide health and dental hygiene demonstrations.

McDonald's Foundation and KaBoom! will soon announce 11 additional playgrounds to be completed within the next year at locations across the U.S.

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