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Cision Canada
23-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
The Starbucks Foundation Strengthens Canadian Communities with $1M+ in Grants Across All Provinces and Yukon Français
TORONTO, June 23, 2025 /CNW/ - The Starbucks Foundation announced today that it is donating over $1 million to local Canadian charities through its Neighbourhood Grants program, thanks to Starbucks partner (employee) nominations. This year's program benefits a record-breaking number of 425 charities from every province in Canada and the Yukon Territory. Every year, The Starbucks Foundation invites Starbucks Canada partners to nominate local charities to receive philanthropic support through the Neighbourhood Grants program to address causes they are passionate about in their communities, including hunger relief, uplifting families, addressing homelessness, empowering youth, and environmental stewardship. The program, now in its sixth year, shattered previous records with more than 7,000 Canadian partners submitting nominations in 2025. Leading with Partners, Giving Back to Local Communities At Starbucks, our partners turn everyday connections into lasting community impact. With Neighbourhood Grants, we celebrate that impact by supporting the local charities they care about. From large urban centers to remote rural towns, from bolstering food banks and supporting 2SlGBTQI+ communities initiatives to helping those experiencing homelessness, the Neighbourhood Grants program uplifts local charities in reaching the people and places that need it most. "At Starbucks Canada, we believe in the power of community and the incredible impact that our green apron partners can have when they're recognized and supported," said Lori Digulla, senior vice president and general manager, Starbucks Canada."Through The Starbucks Foundation's Neighbourhood Grants program, we're proud to empower our partners to nominate a record number of charities across the country. This $1 million investment reflects our deep commitment to creating meaningful change, one neighbourhood at a time inspired by our partners." Last week, Starbucks rallied more than 14,000 North American Coffeehouse Leaders at Leadership Experience 2025 to accelerate its 'Back to Starbucks' strategy. With community in mind, Sara Kelly, executive vice president, chief partner officer, Starbucks Corporation, announced the impact of this year's Neighbourhood Grants. "The latest round of grants resulted in 56,000 nominations from partners across North America, with 85% of our coffeehouses having at least one nomination. At Starbucks, it's never just coffee; we are part of the communities we serve." Uplifting Canadian Communities With hundreds of thousands of Canadians visiting coffeehouses every day, it is Starbucks responsibility to contribute positively to the communities in which it operates from coast-to-coast-to-coast. The Neighbourhood Grants program helps build sustained local impact while inspiring partners to engage in their community all year long. Here's what these grants mean to some of the local charities nominated by partners. "We sincerely appreciate The Starbucks Foundation's commitment to helping those most in need. Programs like Neighbourhood Grants allow us to continue providing emergency support, serving hot, nutritious meals and vital wraparound services to people facing homelessness in Ottawa. Support like this not only nourishes bodies but also uplifts spirits and fosters hope," said Peter Tilley, CEO, The Ottawa Mission. "With The Starbucks Foundation's support, more young people facing adversity will experience the lifelong benefit of one stable and committed adult relationship, which is the most common factor for children who end up doing well," said Jill Zelmanovits, National President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada."We are grateful that 10 Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters across Canada will be able to uplift even more children and youth through mentoring. We applaud the over 70 Starbucks partners across Canada who nominated us for a Neighbourhood Grant." "The Starbucks Foundation's Neighbourhood Grants program is a testament to the power of partnership and compassion. With this support, we can continue serving the growing need and provide our community with nutritious, culturally appropriate food. It's heartening to know that corporate partners like Starbucks are committed to building stronger, more equitable communities," said Julie LeJeune, Executive Director, Fort York Food Bank. About The Starbucks Foundation: Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation's mission is to strengthen humanity by transforming lives across the world. As the primary philanthropic arm of Starbucks, The Starbucks Foundation focuses on enabling community resiliency and prosperity and uplifting communities affected by disaster. To learn more, visit The Starbucks Foundation. About Starbucks Coffee Company Canada: Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with over 1,400 stores across Canada and more than 23,000 Canadian partners, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the country. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Starbucks Foundation Strengthens Canadian Communities with $1M+ in Grants Across All Provinces and Yukon
TORONTO, June 23, 2025 /CNW/ - The Starbucks Foundation announced today that it is donating over $1 million to local Canadian charities through its Neighbourhood Grants program, thanks to Starbucks partner (employee) nominations. This year's program benefits a record-breaking number of 425 charities from every province in Canada and the Yukon Territory. Every year, The Starbucks Foundation invites Starbucks Canada partners to nominate local charities to receive philanthropic support through the Neighbourhood Grants program to address causes they are passionate about in their communities, including hunger relief, uplifting families, addressing homelessness, empowering youth, and environmental stewardship. The program, now in its sixth year, shattered previous records with more than 7,000 Canadian partners submitting nominations in 2025. Leading with Partners, Giving Back to Local Communities At Starbucks, our partners turn everyday connections into lasting community impact. With Neighbourhood Grants, we celebrate that impact by supporting the local charities they care about. From large urban centers to remote rural towns, from bolstering food banks and supporting 2SlGBTQI+ communities initiatives to helping those experiencing homelessness, the Neighbourhood Grants program uplifts local charities in reaching the people and places that need it most. "At Starbucks Canada, we believe in the power of community and the incredible impact that our green apron partners can have when they're recognized and supported," said Lori Digulla, senior vice president and general manager, Starbucks Canada. "Through The Starbucks Foundation's Neighbourhood Grants program, we're proud to empower our partners to nominate a record number of charities across the country. This $1 million investment reflects our deep commitment to creating meaningful change, one neighbourhood at a time inspired by our partners." Last week, Starbucks rallied more than 14,000 North American Coffeehouse Leaders at Leadership Experience 2025 to accelerate its 'Back to Starbucks' strategy. With community in mind, Sara Kelly, executive vice president, chief partner officer, Starbucks Corporation, announced the impact of this year's Neighbourhood Grants. "The latest round of grants resulted in 56,000 nominations from partners across North America, with 85% of our coffeehouses having at least one nomination. At Starbucks, it's never just coffee; we are part of the communities we serve." Uplifting Canadian Communities With hundreds of thousands of Canadians visiting coffeehouses every day, it is Starbucks responsibility to contribute positively to the communities in which it operates from coast-to-coast-to-coast. The Neighbourhood Grants program helps build sustained local impact while inspiring partners to engage in their community all year long. Here's what these grants mean to some of the local charities nominated by partners. "We sincerely appreciate The Starbucks Foundation's commitment to helping those most in need. Programs like Neighbourhood Grants allow us to continue providing emergency support, serving hot, nutritious meals and vital wraparound services to people facing homelessness in Ottawa. Support like this not only nourishes bodies but also uplifts spirits and fosters hope," said Peter Tilley, CEO, The Ottawa Mission. "With The Starbucks Foundation's support, more young people facing adversity will experience the lifelong benefit of one stable and committed adult relationship, which is the most common factor for children who end up doing well," said Jill Zelmanovits, National President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. "We are grateful that 10 Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters across Canada will be able to uplift even more children and youth through mentoring. We applaud the over 70 Starbucks partners across Canada who nominated us for a Neighbourhood Grant." "The Starbucks Foundation's Neighbourhood Grants program is a testament to the power of partnership and compassion. With this support, we can continue serving the growing need and provide our community with nutritious, culturally appropriate food. It's heartening to know that corporate partners like Starbucks are committed to building stronger, more equitable communities," said Julie LeJeune, Executive Director, Fort York Food Bank. About The Starbucks Foundation: Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation's mission is to strengthen humanity by transforming lives across the world. As the primary philanthropic arm of Starbucks, The Starbucks Foundation focuses on enabling community resiliency and prosperity and uplifting communities affected by disaster. To learn more, visit The Starbucks Foundation. About Starbucks Coffee Company Canada: Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with over 1,400 stores across Canada and more than 23,000 Canadian partners, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the country. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at SOURCE The Starbucks Foundation View original content to download multimedia: Sign in to access your portfolio


Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The Starbucks Foundation, Alshaya Group Pledge $6mln to empower youth across MENA, Türkiye
RELATED TOPICS UNITED ARAB EMIRATES RELATED COMPANIES Three-Year Strategic Partnership Starbucks Foundation Alshaya Internat Starbucks JA Worldwide Injaz Al Madina JA (Junior Achievement) Worldwide Dubai, United Arabi Emirates – The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group, a longstanding Starbucks licensee in the Middle East, North Africa (MENA) and Türkiye, announced today the launch of the 'EmpowerME' program – a transformative three-year partnership to engage and upskill 250,000 youth across the region. The initiative will provide a total of US$6 million to local nonprofit organizations in the region to support mentorship programs, skills development, and career readiness, with the goal of uplifting and positively impacting young people in these communities. Grants have been allocated to INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, part of JA (Junior Achievement) Worldwide, and the Habitat Association for the initial launch of the EmpowerME program. Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group, said: 'The Alshaya Group has always been invested in empowering and upskilling youth, who are the leaders and change agents of tomorrow. Together with The Starbucks Foundation, we are proud to launch the 'EmpowerME' program that will have a big impact in transforming communities in the region. Partnering with these global youth organizations – INJAZ Al-Arab and Habitat Association is critical to support the needs of youth and helping them realize their full potential.' Brian Niccol, Chairman and CEO, Starbucks Coffee Company, said: 'For more than a decade, The Starbucks Foundation and the Alshaya Group have joined together to advance economic opportunity and build better futures for young people across the Middle East. I'm confident our latest investment in EmpowerME will help upskill thousands of young people in the region and support them as they grow their careers." Empowering youth with lifelong skills Building on a two-year partnership in the MENA region, the grant to INJAZ Al-Arab will enhance work readiness training and financial literacy for youth, with a focus on young women and displaced people across Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Egypt, and Lebanon initially, followed by Bahrain, Morocco and Qatar. Through this investment, the EmpowerMe program has already made an impact, with over 10,000 youth participating in INJAZ Al-Arab's tailored programs across Egypt, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. 'The skills gap in the Middle East and North Africa is one of the highest in the world and despite significant effort by regional governments and the private sector, youth unemployment persists. Akef Aqrabawi, President & CEO of INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, said. 'We are confident that INJAZ Al-Arab, The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group will empower the region's young people with the skills and experience they need to get future-ready and be productive members of their community. From job shadowing and mentoring opportunities to skill-building classes and financial literacy training, our partnership will help youth in the MENA to hone their skillset and mindset to start their careers, manage their finances, achieve their aspirations, and build thriving communities.' The grant to Habitat Association will enhance digital literacy and communication skills by supporting entrepreneurship programs and offering in-person training and workshops on career development and social and emotional well-being. This initiative will focus on young people in Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan, while in Jordan, the programs will be implemented through its on-ground partner, Isnad. In December, Habitat Association hosted a Youth Summit for 150 youth volunteer project ambassadors in Türkiye and additional programs are expected in the coming months. Bora Caldu, Chair of the Executive Committee of Habitat Association, said: 'As Habitat Association, we have been working diligently for many years in the fields of digital transformation and entrepreneurship to ensure that young people become actors shaping both today and the future. The 'EmpowerMe Program,' which we have launched through a partnership with The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group, aims to enhance the digital skills of young people, support their entrepreneurial journeys, and spread social impact across the community. Through this new partnership, we will always stand by young people as they turn their dreams into reality, because we know that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the partners of today.' As one of Starbucks largest and longest standing licensed partners globally, Alshaya Group has operated Starbucks in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye region since 1999. Today, Alshaya Group employs 19,000 local green apron partners (employees) across nearly 2,000 Starbucks stores. The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group have a long history of supporting young people and communities in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye. Programs including the launch of Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants in 2008, Opportunity Cafés initiative in 2016 and The Starbucks Foundation's Global Community Impact Grants program since 2022 have taught young people skills for economic success. Additionally, both organizations have extended disaster response grants, offered humanitarian food aid in Gaza, provided relief for those affected by the Beirut port explosion, and supported recovery efforts following the earthquakes in Türkiye, Syria, and Morocco. The Starbucks Foundation The Starbucks Foundation strengthens humanity by transforming lives across the world, with a focus on enabling community resiliency and prosperity and uplifting communities affected by disaster. Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation is a Section 501(c)(3) charitable organization under U.S. law. Learn more at Starbucks Stories. Starbucks at Alshaya Group Starbucks® Coffee Company, operates in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and Central Asia regions as a licensed franchise under the umbrella of Alshaya Group, one of the world's leading brand franchise operators. As the premier purveyor of the finest coffee in the world, Starbucks seamlessly integrates global coffee expertise and local know-how. Starbucks is all about inspiring and nurturing the human spirit , bringing together local communities and delivering memorable customer experiences. We work to ensure the highest standards of quality and excellence in bringing you an ethically sourced, high-quality cup of Arabica coffee. Serving up coffee and connections to draw our world closer, Starbucks at Alshaya Group currently operates more than 2000 stores in 13 countries in the region. JA Worldwide As one of the world's largest and most-impactful youth-serving nonprofits, JA Worldwide delivers hands on, immersive learning in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial health. Delivering more than 17 million student experiences each year in over 100 countries. Operating in 13 countries across the Middle East and North Africa, INJAZ Al-Arab is the only non-profit organization in the region that harnesses the mentorship of business leaders to help inspire a culture of entrepreneurship and business innovation among Arab youth. Habitat Association Habitat Association (Habitat) is a non-governmental organization that produces social capacity-building and impact-oriented projects based on strong partnerships aimed at sustainable development and aligned with the digitalizing world. Since 1997, Habitat has been carrying out activities for all segments of society in 81 provinces of Turkey with thousands of volunteers, regardless of religion, language, race, political opinion, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Drawing its strength from international networks, knowledge, and the positive energy of its volunteers across Turkey, Habitat continues its work in the fields of entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and inclusive and sustainable growth. Harnessing the wealth of experience and know-how accumulated since 1997, Habitat actively supports the growth and empowerment of youth across the MENA region through its robust network of national and international partnerships. About ISNAD Isnad International Center for Empowerment and Development (ISNAD) is dedicated to creating opportunities for youth through both local and international development projects, recognizing and embracing their abilities and potential. By building alliances with local youth organizations, ISNAD strengthens their capacity to better serve young people. The organization focuses on key areas such as enhancing youth employability, fostering inclusion and diversity, promoting civic responsibility and engagement, and developing a global perspective for young individuals. ISNAD envisions collaborative communities shaped by empowered and actively engaged youth. Its mission is to empower young people, increasing their participation in the development process and driving positive change.


Mid East Info
18-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
The Starbucks Foundation, Alshaya Group Pledge US$6 Million to Empower Youth across MENA, Türkiye - Middle East Business News and Information
The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group, a longstanding Starbucks licensee in the Middle East, North Africa (MENA) and Türkiye, announced today the launch of the 'EmpowerME' program – a transformative three-year partnership to engage and upskill 250,000 youth across the region. The initiative will provide a total of US$6 million to local nonprofit organizations in the region to support mentorship programs, skills development, and career readiness, with the goal of uplifting and positively impacting young people in these communities. Grants have been allocated to INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, part of JA (Junior Achievement) Worldwide, and the Habitat Association for the initial launch of the EmpowerME program. Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group, said: 'The Alshaya Group has always been invested in empowering and upskilling youth, who are the leaders and change agents of tomorrow. Together with The Starbucks Foundation, we are proud to launch the 'EmpowerME' program that will have a big impact in transforming communities in the region. Partnering with these global youth organizations – INJAZ Al-Arab and Habitat Association is critical to support the needs of youth and helping them realize their full potential.' Brian Niccol, Chairman and CEO, Starbucks Coffee Company, said: 'For more than a decade, The Starbucks Foundation and the Alshaya Group have joined together to advance economic opportunity and build better futures for young people across the Middle East. I'm confident our latest investment in EmpowerME will help upskill thousands of young people in the region and support them as they grow their careers.' Empowering youth with lifelong skills: Building on a two-year partnership in the MENA region, the grant to INJAZ Al-Arab will enhance work readiness training and financial literacy for youth, with a focus on young women and displaced people across Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Egypt, and Lebanon initially, followed by Bahrain, Morocco and Qatar. Through this investment, the EmpowerMe program has already made an impact, with over 10,000 youth participating in INJAZ Al-Arab's tailored programs across Egypt, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. 'The skills gap in the Middle East and North Africa is one of the highest in the world and despite significant effort by regional governments and the private sector, youth unemployment persists. Akef Aqrabawi, President & CEO of INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, said. 'We are confident that INJAZ Al-Arab, The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group will empower the region's young people with the skills and experience they need to get future-ready and be productive members of their community. From job shadowing and mentoring opportunities to skill-building classes and financial literacy training, our partnership will help youth in the MENA to hone their skillset and mindset to start their careers, manage their finances, achieve their aspirations, and build thriving communities.' The grant to Habitat Association will enhance digital literacy and communication skills by supporting entrepreneurship programs and offering in-person training and workshops on career development and social and emotional well-being. This initiative will focus on young people in Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan, while in Jordan, the programs will be implemented through its on-ground partner, Isnad. In December, Habitat Association hosted a Youth Summit for 150 youth volunteer project ambassadors in Türkiye and additional programs are expected in the coming months. Bora Caldu, Chair of the Executive Committee of Habitat Association, said: 'As Habitat Association, we have been working diligently for many years in the fields of digital transformation and entrepreneurship to ensure that young people become actors shaping both today and the future. The 'EmpowerMe Program,' which we have launched through a partnership with The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group, aims to enhance the digital skills of young people, support their entrepreneurial journeys, and spread social impact across the community. Through this new partnership, we will always stand by young people as they turn their dreams into reality, because we know that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the partners of today.' As one of Starbucks largest and longest standing licensed partners globally, Alshaya Group has operated Starbucks in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye region since 1999. Today, Alshaya Group employs 19,000 local green apron partners (employees) across nearly 2,000 Starbucks stores. The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Group have a long history of supporting young people and communities in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye. Programs including the launch of Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants in 2008, Opportunity Cafés initiative in 2016 and The Starbucks Foundation's Global Community Impact Grants program since 2022 have taught young people skills for economic success. Additionally, both organizations have extended disaster response grants, offered humanitarian food aid in Gaza, provided relief for those affected by the Beirut port explosion, and supported recovery efforts following the earthquakes in Türkiye, Syria, and Morocco. The Starbucks Foundation: The Starbucks Foundation strengthens humanity by transforming lives across the world, with a focus on enabling community resiliency and prosperity and uplifting communities affected by disaster. Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation is a Section 501(c)(3) charitable organization under U.S. law. Starbucks at Alshaya Group: Starbucks® Coffee Company, operates in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and Central Asia regions as a licensed franchise under the umbrella of Alshaya Group, one of the world's leading brand franchise operators. As the premier purveyor of the finest coffee in the world, Starbucks seamlessly integrates global coffee expertise and local know-how. Starbucks is all about inspiring and nurturing the human spirit , bringing together local communities and delivering memorable customer experiences. We work to ensure the highest standards of quality and excellence in bringing you an ethically sourced, high-quality cup of Arabica coffee. Serving up coffee and connections to draw our world closer, Starbucks at Alshaya Group currently operates more than 2000 stores in 13 countries in the region. JA Worldwide: As one of the world's largest and most-impactful youth-serving nonprofits, JA Worldwide delivers hands on, immersive learning in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial health. Delivering more than 17 million student experiences each year in over 100 countries. Operating in 13 countries across the Middle East and North Africa, INJAZ Al-Arab is the only non-profit organization in the region that harnesses the mentorship of business leaders to help inspire a culture of entrepreneurship and business innovation among Arab youth. Habitat Association: Habitat Association (Habitat) is a non-governmental organization that produces social capacity-building and impact-oriented projects based on strong partnerships aimed at sustainable development and aligned with the digitalizing world. Since 1997, Habitat has been carrying out activities for all segments of society in 81 provinces of Turkey with thousands of volunteers, regardless of religion, language, race, political opinion, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Drawing its strength from international networks, knowledge, and the positive energy of its volunteers across Turkey, Habitat continues its work in the fields of entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and inclusive and sustainable growth. Harnessing the wealth of experience and know-how accumulated since 1997, Habitat actively supports the growth and empowerment of youth across the MENA region through its robust network of national and international partnerships. About ISNAD: Isnad International Center for Empowerment and Development (ISNAD) is dedicated to creating opportunities for youth through both local and international development projects, recognizing and embracing their abilities and potential. By building alliances with local youth organizations, ISNAD strengthens their capacity to better serve young people. The organization focuses on key areas such as enhancing youth employability, fostering inclusion and diversity, promoting civic responsibility and engagement, and developing a global perspective for young individuals. ISNAD envisions collaborative communities shaped by empowered and actively engaged youth. Its mission is to empower young people, increasing their participation in the development process and driving positive change.