Restaurants raise money for Lorain PD

McDonald's restaurants across Northeast Ohio, led by local owner/operator Jason Payne, thanked the community for its overwhelming support that helped raise $15,138 for the families of the fallen and injured officers of the Lorain Police Department. For 12 hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 4, a total of 20 percent of all digital sales at Payne's 23 participating restaurants were donated in honor of local law enforcement. Participating locations included also included restaurants in both Norwalk locations, New London, Willard, Huron, Milan, Vermilion, and all Sandusky locations. "Northeast Ohio truly showed its heart," said Jason Payne, McDonald's owner/operator. "From every mobile order to every kiosk purchase and social media share, our community came together to make a real difference for families who need us most. "We are so grateful for the outpouring of support and for standing alongside our officers and their loved ones." The fundraiser was the culmination of a week of action and support by local McDonald's teams. In the hours following the tragic events, McDonald's on Henderson Drive in Lorain closed its dining room out of respect and safety. The following morning, staff delivered breakfast sandwiches to the Lorain Police Department and the Lorain County Sheriff's Office, along with free meal cards for every officer. Later that week, McDonald's supported a fundraiser for an officer's family by donating baskets, cutlery and supplies. When news came that Officer Wagner had passed, and his procession would travel past the North Ridgeville McDonald's on Center Ridge Road, the restaurant invited the community to gather and honor him. Flags were handed out to customers and neighbors, who lined the road in a moving show of solidarity.