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 BANNERS LIKE THE one pictured here began appearing in Starbucks stores throughout the United States and Canada on November 15. Customers may select a child’s name from the tree, purchase a gift and return it to Starbucks. The Salvation Army then distributes the gifts. This is the second year Starbucks has partnered with The Salvation Army to provide gifts for needy youngsters. |
BY DEBORAH STEKL KNUTSON –
The Starbucks Coffee Company and The Salvation Army are teaming up to spread a little joy this holiday season through their “Holiday Angels” program.
From November 15 through early December, Starbucks Coffee Company is collecting gifts at their 2,500-plus retail locations across the United States and Canada for distribution by The Salvation Army to children and families in need.
“This year’s ‘Holiday Angels’ program is a first-time national partnership of The Salvation Army and Starbucks Coffee,” said Captain Robert Rudd, territorial community relations and development secretary. “Based in large part on the success of last year’s regional ‘Holiday Angels’ program and this past summer’s ‘Happy Campers’ program, both run here in the West, Starbucks Coffee North America chose The Salvation Army as their charity of choice this holiday season. We are thrilled with the wonderful opportunities this partnership presents.”
Colorful banners featuring holiday gift tags will be displayed at Starbucks retail locations across the U.S. and Canada. The tags are printed with age appropriate gift suggestions for girls and boys through age 12. Starbucks customers are invited to select gift tags, purchase gifts and return them to Starbucks for distribution by The Salvation Army to children in local communities. Local Salvation Army staff and volunteers will complete gift-wrapping and sorting.
“Remembering those less fortunate is such an important part of the spirit and meaning of the holiday season,” said Orin Smith, president and chief executive officer, Starbucks Coffee Company. “We hope that our customers embrace the Holiday Angels program and help give underprivileged children a special reason to smile during the holidays.”
“The holiday season is a time for sharing with others,” said Lt. Colonel Tom Jones, national community relations and development secretary. “The Salvation Army tries to reach everyone who needs help. With community support through the ‘Holiday Angels’ program, we can provide not only gifts to thousands of children, but also hope and meaningful holiday memories to last throughout the year.”
