Sweet History, Minty Magic: Shamrock Shake Returns to Support RMHC

February 10th, 2025 | News

We’re thrilled to share some truly sweet news! The iconic Shamrock Shake is BACK at McDonald’s and this year, it comes with a heartwarming twist: a portion of the proceeds — 25 cents from every Shamrock Shake sold — will benefit local Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) chapters across the country, including RMHC-Madison. This is the first national promotion supporting RMHC since 2017, and we couldn’t be more excited.  

The Shamrock Shake is a big part of our history. In 1974, proceeds from the iconic green treat helped fund the purchase of the very first Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia. Before RMHC, families with seriously ill children had no place to stay near the hospital and instead ate out of vending machines and slept in hospital waiting rooms to remain close to their children while they received care. Dr. Audrey Evans, the Chief of Pediatric Oncology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia at the time, witnessed this day after day in her role. She believed in creating a home-away-from-home for families to remain together and focus on healing.  

During this same time, the Philadelphia Eagles rallied support for their fellow teammate Fred Hill, whose daughter battled leukemia. As the Hills spent long days at the hospital, they realized the lack of comfort and support was a shared struggle for many families. The Eagles became champions for Dr. Evans’ vision, and together, they approached McDonald’s for support.  

McDonald’s local owner-operator Hal Rosen and founder Ray Croc recognized the profound potential of the cause and optimistically agreed.  Through the combined time, energy, resources, and dedication of this unlikely trio, the first Ronald McDonald House opened its doors in 1974. Nearly 50 years later, that single house has blossomed into a global network with more than 390 Houses worldwide, providing care and comfort to families when they need it most.  

Our RMHC chapter in Madison was established in 1993 and has remained a beacon of hope for families. As our founding and forever mission partner, McDonald’s is instrumental in our ability to provide for families. Local McDonald’s and owner-operators contribute roughly 15% of our chapter’s budget through initiatives like Round-Up, canister donations, Happy Meal proceeds, wish list drives, annual gifts, sponsorships, and more. The return of the Shamrock Shake promotion is another sweet way for them (and you!) to give back.  

Want to make a difference? It’s as simple as treating yourself (and maybe your friends too) to a minty fresh Shamrock Shake. With each delicious sip, you’re helping families stay together and close to the care they need during life’s most challenging moments. Want to double the impact? Don’t forget to ask Round-Up for RMHC when you order!   

This Shamrock Shake season, you’re not just enjoying a nostalgic treat — you’re carrying on a legacy of support for families when they need it most. Thank you for being a vital part of this mission and helping us continue Dr. Audrey Evans’ vision of compassionate care.   

Cheers to minty moments and meaningful impact!