Since 2001, Starbucks has donated $142 million to help make a positive difference in the communities where our stores are located. We also make investments in the regions that grow our coffee, tea and cocoa. And, through the Ethos Water Fund, we’re helping communities affected by the global water crisis.
Our community investments include cash and in-kind donations from across the company, investments in coffee community projects, partner volunteer and matching gifts programs, and contributions from The Starbucks Foundation.
The Starbucks Foundation is a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization that receives most of its funding from Starbucks Coffee Company and the rest from private donations. Since it was founded in 1997, The Foundation has provided more than $32 million in funding to efforts that strengthen communities where we do business.
What we’ve been doing.
In fiscal 2008, Starbucks cash and in-kind contributions were valued at $14 million; or three percent of the company’s earnings before interest and tax.
The Foundation made 89 grants to nonprofit organizations in fiscal 2008, totaling just over $6.5 million. Significant accomplishments included $2.1 million in grants through Starbucks youth grants,$900,000 to continue our support of rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Katrina, $2 million in Ethos Water Fund grants for clean water projects, and $250,000 to assist some of the areas hardest hit by the earthquake in China’s Sichuan province.
Hurdles.
Given the headwinds experienced across the globe with the current economic crisis, Starbucks cash contributions to communities decreased from the previous year. Going forward, we’re taking a closer look at our giving to ensure we remain consistent and focused in our funding.
What we’re working on.
We continue to support local neighborhoods and coffee communities because it’s core to who we are. We will continue to increase our impact by focusing our efforts on community service and young people.
