Burgers to Beat MS Day 2024: A&W’s Continued Commitment to Supporting Canadians Living with MS
On August 22, 2024, A&W proudly celebrated the 16th annual Burgers to Beat MS Day, marking yet another year of dedicated efforts to support Canadians living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This day has become a cornerstone of A&W’s commitment to raising funds and awareness for MS, a cause close to the company’s heart.
For every Teen Burger sold on this special day, $2 was donated to MS Canada. These donations are vital in providing support to individuals and families affected by MS, as well as funding crucial research aimed at eliminating the disease. While the final tally for 2024 is still being calculated, early estimates indicate that around $1.6 million was raised for the second consecutive year—a testament to the generosity and support of franchisees and guests.
In 2023, together with partners and the incredible people who visited A&W restaurants, an impressive $1.6 million was raised. Over the years, A&W’s partnership with MS Canada has resulted in over $20 million raised. This incredible sum has funded various essential initiatives, including the MS Knowledge Network, which offers vital resources in both French and English, and nearly $10 million in annual research funding. Additionally, through the Quality of Life Equipment Grants, A&W has helped provide access to assistive technology, empowering individuals living with MS to maintain personal independence.
Burgers to Beat MS Day is more than just selling Teen Burgers. It’s a day dedicated to engaging with communities and raising awareness about MS across Canada. From special events to parking lot stands, franchisees and their restaurants nationwide went above and beyond to make this day special. These activities, driven by the passion and dedication of A&W’s franchisees, reflect the deep care and commitment that lie at the heart of this charitable campaign.
Why This Cause Matters
Canada continues to have one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with over 90,000 people living with the disease—an alarming statistic that equates to 1 in every 400 Canadians. The Atlas of MS report sheds light on this critical issue:
– Over 90,000 Canadians are living with MS—1 in every 400 people.
– Every year, 4,377 people are diagnosed with MS—almost 12 people per day.
– The average age of diagnosis is 43 years.
– 75% of those living with MS are women.
– 90% of people with MS are initially diagnosed with relapsing-remitting forms of MS, while 10% are diagnosed with progressive forms.
These numbers underscore the importance of the continued support provided by initiatives like Burgers to Beat MS Day. The funds raised through this campaign go directly towards improving the lives of those affected and fueling the research that will one day lead to a cure.
A&W is immensely proud to continue its longstanding tradition of supporting Canadians affected by MS. The success of this year’s Burgers to Beat MS Day fills the company with hope and determination to continue making a difference. Together, with every Teen Burger sold, A&W believes it is one step closer to a world free of MS.