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McDonald’s is offering free “Thank You Meals” to all healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics.

“We want to give back as far as the brand and here locally. There’s endless opportunity—there are a lot of folks that aren’t able to leave work,” said General Manager Edmund Minchew.

In an effort to show appreciation for the workers’ selfless service during this difficult time, the restaurant is serving the meals from April 22 until May 5 across the nation.

Locally, the McDonald’s has already served a large portion of frontline workers. “We’ve had quite a few already. We’ve had about 60 today,” commented Minchew.

As a corporation, McDonald’s has remained open and is taking many safety precautions to protect its hard-working employees. During the pandemic, McDonald’s has implemented nearly 50 new safety measures to ensure the well-being of its employees, and is continuing to explore additional safety steps in accordance with guidance issued by local and national health authorities including the CDC. “We have pretty strict guidelines in place. We have increased hand-washing frequency. All service employees are required to wear gloves, and we have a protective glass in the front and in the drive-thru,” explained Minchew.

The company is grateful for the ongoing dedication and commitment of its employees who enable McDonald’s to stay open to serve the community during these challenging times.

“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, 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.”

Currently, each Thank You Meal is available at no charge via drive thru or carry out. According to the company, day or night, these frontline heroes can simply show their work badge, or be in uniform, to receive a meal. Locally, Minchew says a large order could be delivered to the workers. “We’ve had some requests in delivering them, which we don’t mind doing,” said Minchew.

The Thank You Meal is available during breakfast, lunch or dinner and features a choice of sandwiches, drinks, and a side, along with a note of appreciation. The meal is served in the McDonald’s iconic Happy Meal box, in the hopes of bringing a smile along with delicious food.

The meal choices include:

Breakfast

A choice of an Egg McMuffin^®, Chicken McGriddles^® or a Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit. All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and a Hash Brown.

Lunch and Dinner

A choice of a Double Cheeseburger, 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets^® or a Filet-O-Fish^® will be offered. All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and small fries.

For more information visit the local McDonald’s located at 464 South Boulevard in Brewton.

Editor’s Note: Special safety precautions were taken when delivering the meals to each department.