IN line with its ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts, McDonald's Saudi Arabia donated all the proceeds received from its annual “Charity Book Campaign” which amounted to SR1,455,000 to 11 local children's charity organizations, spreading hope and kindness to underprivileged kids who need it most. The Charity Book Campaign, an annual initiative that McDonald's embarks upon, aims to sell short stories at a price of SR10 each with the proceeds going to various charity associations across the Kingdom. This year McDonalds was able to sell a total of 145,500 books across more than 200 branches in the Kingdom, 55,000 more than last year's campaign, ultimately translating into an increase in proceeds donated across the board. Mohammed Alireza, Deputy General Manager at Reza Food Services Co. Ltd., the exclusive McDonald's developmental licensee for the Western and Southern regions of the Kingdom, said: “The Charity Book Campaign has completed its fourth run and with every year we see more and more books sold, and more being donated to those who need it most. Each book bought told an important story for a child to read, relaying vital principles and covering themes such as good manners and the importance of helping others, while also representing a gift of hope for those who are less fortunate.” Mishaal Bin Khalid F. Al Saud, President at Riyadh International Catering Corp., the exclusive McDonald's developmental licensee in the Central, Eastern and Northern regions of the Kingdom, added: “We at McDonald's strive to serve our community, not only in the holy month of Ramadan but throughout the year. We continuously aim to give back to the Saudi community, whether it is through donations, visiting charities and orphanages, feeding the less fortunate, or holding sports tournaments.” The charities that received proceeds from McDonald's this year include Asdiqa Charity Association, Friends of Jeddah Parks, Insan Charity Association, Bena'a Charity Association, Al Bir Society, My Child Outstanding Center, Noura Center for the Caring and Development of Special Needs Children in Jeddah, Abna'a Charity Association for Orphans, Refaq Charity Association, Hafr Al-Baten Charity Association for Orphans and Arar Charity Association for Orphans. — SG
