A struggling hospital in New South Wales’ Illawarra region looks set to reject cash offer from a nearby McDonald’s due to fears it might send the wrong message.
Shellharbour Hospital has been offered $66 000 from the nearby Warilla McDonald’s to help get it out of financial trouble, but in the midst of the obesity epidemic gripping Australia, and the increase in heart disease and other health issues linked to unhealthy eating, the hospital will most likely reject it.
In August, McDonald’s and Hungry Jack’s copped criticism for not joining KFC in banning toys from kids meals.
The licensees of the McDonald’s have made donations to the hospital previously, with $30 000 donated for a breathing machine in 2008 and $35 000 for a medical transport cart in 2009.
The latest offer, which has not yet been rejected, but has been met with scepticism from health officials, would go towards emergency department equipment for the next three years.
”All sponsorship agreements must comply with stringent NSW Health policies,” a spokeswoman for the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District told The Sydney Morning Herald.
”McDonald’s Warilla has in the past made significant donations.
“These donations are genuinely valued and the local business has been recognised for its contribution.”
Existing McDonald’s signs at the hospital are also being reviewed, but a spokesman from the NSW Department of Health said he was unaware of other hospitals refusing fast food company sponsorship and local health districts ultimately decided what were appropriate sponsorship or donation deals.
”NSW Health prohibits sponsorship from a company involved with tobacco products. It also warns against dealing with sponsors that produce other products damaging to the physical or mental health of the community,” he told the Herald.
A McDonald’s Australia spokeswoman said if the offer is rejected, it will be the first time a hospital has done so.
”We are incredibly proud of the meaningful contributions we make to the communities in which we operate.
Image: The Illawarra Mercury