This week a man quietly walked in to his local McDonald's, handed the cashier a wad of cash, and simply said he wanted to pay for everyone’s meals until the money runs out.
From 1:30 to 5:00 p.m., franchise owner David Yee and his daughter Christine Yee gave away 356 meals — all paid for by the anonymous donor.
“Initially my manager started using the cash to pay for meals, but then our staff decided they should call me,” Christine said. “I was actually skeptical at first and became concerned the money might be counterfeit.” However, local police later confirmed the cash was real. Christine said she had never seen anything like it.
“We have customers in the drive-through regularly offer to pay for the car behind them, but that’s just one order.”
To celebrate the unexpected generosity, Christine invited McDonald’s beloved purple mascot, Grimace, to the restaurant and created special cards to hand out with each free meal. The cards, decorated with red and yellow hearts, read:
“You have just received a random act of kindness. An anonymous Haverhill neighbor has paid for your McDonald’s meal today. We hope this brightened your day. If you feel compelled, pay it forward to someone in your own way.”
Inspired by the stranger’s selfless act, Christine and her father are also giving back by making a donation to the Ronald McDonald House charity.
“We were given a special opportunity to spread some kindness,” Christine said. “We hope everyone who got a meal for free today passes that good feeling of caring forward.”