Beirut, Lebanon – June 2020: In response to the COVID-19 health crisis, and as part of its community involvement initiatives, McDonald’s Lebanon paid tribute to the commitment, courage and hard work of the Rafik Hariri University Hospital’s Corona medical team who carried the brunt of the fight against the novel coronavirus in Lebanon. On Thursday May 28, an honoring ceremony was held at the hospital, during which RHUH’s frontline healthcare staff were awarded the McDonald’s Golden Card, a first of its kind card issued just for the hospital’s medical heroes, including doctors and nurses, respiratory therapists, x-ray and lab technicians, orderlies, cleaners and all support staff at the COVID-19 section at the RHUH, entitling them to free McDonald’s and McCafé meals and products for a year.
On this occasion, Mr. Mohamad Hamandi, General Manager at McDonald’s Lebanon, said: “We at McDonald’s, care deeply for those sacrificing to keep Corona at bay, we are here to express our love and support for the doctors, nurses and all healthcare providers who are braving the outbreak to help others and protect all of Lebanon. Together, we rise in tribute to say a big thank you to our Medical Heroes!”
The event featured the Lebanese comedian Amal Taleb who delivered a stand-up comedy performance to spread positive vibes and bring laughter and hope to the medical and nursing team, healthcare providers and especially the patients who enjoyed this little show from the windows of their hospital rooms.
More than 200 Golden Cards were then distributed and Mrs. Lina Sadek, Marketing Manager at McDonald’s Lebanon said: “We are here today to congratulate all those who provide healthcare under challenging circumstances on their exceptional work. We at McDonald’s Lebanon, felt we have an essential role to play during the COVID-19 crisis; and therefore, we are happy to introduce McDonald’s Golden Card, a card especially made for RHUH healthcare heroes. Thank you to our amazing doctors and nurses, respiratory therapists, x-ray and lab technicians, orderlies, cleaners and all support staff, you are truly heroes!”
After receiving the Golden Cards, Mrs. Raymonda Moussaed, Head of Procurement at Rafik Hariri University Hospital, commented: “On behalf of myself and RHUH’s team, we would like to thank you for standing by us during these hard times and for your generous donation. We are thrilled to have your support and are extremely grateful!”
McDonald’s Lebanon is the first market to issue this Golden Card, reflecting our Heroes’ Golden Hearts. More than 200 Golden Cards were offered to RHUH’s healthcare staff tackling COVID-19.
As part of this initiative, McDonald’s Lebanon has also stepped up to support the healthcare heroes’ families by offering more than 1,000 meals delivered to their doorsteps.