The charity is asking community groups to form ‘Bucket Brigades’, to help reach a record target of $4.1 million nationwide for seriously ill children and their families.

As the largest annual fundraiser for RMHC, all money raised on McHappy Day supports programs and services including Ronald McDonald Houses, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, Ronald McDonald Family Retreats and the Ronald McDonald Learning Program.

Many of the Ronald McDonald Houses across the country have waiting lists and are unable to accommodate all families due to being at capacity.

Fundraising efforts by the local community are crucial to helping RMHC continue to expand programs and services to families who need them.

RMHC CEO Barbara Ryan said all volunteers are driven to help out on the day.

“Being able to ensure children can be surrounded by the love and support of their family while they are on the road to recovery drives the work of RMHC,” she said.

“Brigades are a great way for the community to help us reach our target of $4.1 million, which would provide over 31,000 nights of accommodation and help more families stay close together.”

Since opening its doors in 1981, RMHC has accommodated more than 106,000 families.

All funds raised by locals will go directly to RMHC to ensure they can continue providing these much-needed programs and services to seriously ill children and their families.

For more information https://www.rmhc.org.au/mchappyday.