McDonald’s and Starbucks Offering Free Coffee to First Responders During COVID-19

Mcdonald s starbucks

For first responders and healthcare workers working the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, McDonald’s Canada and Starbucks are offering up a small perk to say thanks.

According to McDonald’s Canada, a free coffee or tea is available at the drive-thru, at participating restaurants.

“To our health care workers and emergency services personnel, we can’t thank you enough for your efforts. Your medium McCafé Premium Roast Coffee or Tea is on us. Available in drive-thru at participating restaurants in Canada,” explained the fast food chain.

Last week, McDonald’s shut down all of its dining areas and moved strictly to drive-thru and McDelivery, due to the coronavirus pandemic. Customers are still able to make mobile orders for pick up at the drive-thru window.

Starbucks Canada Also Offering Up Free Coffee for First Responders

As for Starbucks Canada, the coffee chain is also similarly offering up a free tall or iced coffee for first responders and healthcare workers during this COVID-19 pandemic.

“Starting today through May 3, any customer who identifies as a front-line responder to the COVID-19 outbreak will receive a tall brewed coffee (hot or iced) at no charge,” explained Starbucks Canada.

The company also detailed how numerous stores across Canada are going the extra mile to provide coffee for first responders, after some were seen abandoning long drive-thru line ups (storefronts recently closed due to COVID-19).

“Many of my baristas felt bad and wanted to do something, so we came up with the idea of giving them free coffee without the wait. If we see [a first responder] in line, we ask them to park, get their orders and deliver them to their cars,” said store manager Aleena Zafar, from Toronto’s Cliffside neighbourhood.

“In the last four days we have seen almost twice the amount of first responders. They are so grateful for us just being open. The free coffee is just a bonus,” added Zafar.

Earlier this month, Starbucks also closed its seating areas and moved strictly to mobile orders only in Canada and the USA, due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

P.S. - Like our news? Support the site with a coffee/beer. Or shop with our Amazon link. We use affiliate links when possible--thank you for supporting independent media.