​McDonald's UK and FareShare Spotlight 'Making It Out' Charity

In an inspiring demonstration of corporate responsibility and community support, McDonald's UK has partnered with FareShare, a leading food waste and hunger charity, to significantly impact local communities, notably spotlighting the Brighton-based charity 'Making It Out.'

Ventonleague : McDonald's Restaurant by Lewis Clarke, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

'Making It Out' is an exceptional charity focused on the mental health and rehabilitation of ex-offenders through creative activities like art, sculpture, and craftsmanship. These activities are more than just hobbies; they are powerful tools for rebuilding lives and fostering a sense of community and belonging. The charity also highly emphasises nourishment, providing healthy meals to its participants - a crucial aspect of their overall wellbeing.

Through its partnership with FareShare, McDonald's UK plays a pivotal role in this noble cause. The fast-food giant has committed to redistributing over two million meals to families in need over 12 months.

This is achieved through direct food donations - over 200 tonnes to FareShare - and innovative fundraising initiatives. For example, McDonald's customers can donate their MyMcDonald's Rewards points directly to FareShare via the McDonald's app.

The partnership extends beyond just food redistribution. McDonald's has pledged a significant sum (£250,000) to fund FareShare's efforts. This funding is crucial, as it enables FareShare to source surplus food from across the food industry and deliver it to nearly 9,500 frontline charities and community groups, including 'Making It Out.' This logistical support is as important as the food itself, ensuring that the aid reaches those who need it most.

McDonald's UK's commitment is further highlighted by their recent winter campaign, which promised to redistribute over one million meals. They've collaborated with prominent sports and entertainment figures to raise awareness and funds to create limited-edition McDelivery bags, turning a simple food delivery into a statement of support and solidarity.

Image Source: Making It Out

Lucy Grubb, Co-founder of 'Making It Out,' eloquently expresses the impact of this partnership. She notes that providing balanced meals, sometimes the only hot meal for some participants, strengthens the community spirit and aids in the rehabilitation process. It's a poignant reminder of how a meal can be much more than just food – it symbolises care, support, and community.

Alistair Macrow, Chief Executive Officer for McDonald's UK & Ireland, said: "Supporting the communities we serve is a top priority for our business. Together with our franchisees, we've already been able to fund the redistribution of 11 million meals to families in the greatest need through our partnership with FareShare. Never has this support been needed more.

McDonald's has been a partner of FareShare since 2020, helping them with their mission to redistribute surplus food to charities and community groups in areas that need support the most. Since 2020, McDonald's UK has funded the redistribution of the equivalent of over 11 million meals through charitable donations.

McDonald's UK's partnership with FareShare is more than just corporate philanthropy; it's a commitment to making a tangible difference in people's lives. It represents a powerful collaboration between the private sector and charitable organisations, working together to tackle food waste, hunger, and rehabilitation holistically and sustainably. This initiative feeds the body and nourishes the soul, fostering a sense of community and hope among those who need it most.