CaribPR

OAK BROOK, Ill., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — To help the victims of Haiti’s devastating earthquake, McDonald’s Corporation today announced a donation of $500,000 USD to be matched with donations from Arcos Dorados, the company that operates nearly 1,700 McDonald’s restaurants in Latin America. These combined contributions are estimated to total at least $1 million.

 ”McDonald’s has a long legacy of being a dependable corporate neighbor in times of need, and helping the people of Haiti during this crisis is absolutely the right thing to do,” said Jim Skinner, McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer. “While we don’t have McDonald’s restaurants in Haiti, our contribution reflects our commitment to people all over the world.”

 The funds will be channeled through the International Federation of the Red Cross to be used for its disaster relief efforts.

 Along with McDonald’s $500,000 USD matching donation, the team in Latin America has developed a grassroots program to raise funds. From January 16 until January 22, all McDonald’s restaurants operated by Arcos Dorados in 19 countries will donate 50 cents from the sales of individual Big Mac sandwiches and Big Mac Extra Value Meals. Arcos Dorados estimates that these fundraising efforts will generate a minimum of $500,000.

 About McDonald’s

McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD) is the leading global foodservice retailer with more than 32,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries. Approximately 80 percent of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by franchisees. Please visit our Web site at www.aboutmcdonalds.com to learn more about the Company.

 ©2010 McDonald’s

 The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, the Golden Arches Logo and Big Mac.