Starbucks Foundation Raises $185,000 to Support Literacy

Posted on September 24, 1997

Starbucks Coffee Company announced that to date $185,000 has been raised to support literacy. This money has been raised through the sale of "Oprah's Book Club's" June selection, "Songs in Ordinary Time," by Mary McGarry Morris, at Starbucks locations across the country.

"I am overwhelmed by the passionate enthusiasm our customers and our partners (employees) have shown by engaging in local programs and initiatives that make a difference in their communities," said Howard Schultz, chairman and ceo of Starbucks Coffee Company. "Broad market literacy events and activities are being implemented in 12 major markets, involving more than 500 Starbucks locations."

The Starbucks Foundation will be distributing funds in a unique way by asking partners (employees) to recommend and apply for grants that would benefit local community literacy organizations. The two initial grants of $20,000 each to Seattle Goodwill's Community Learning Center (GCLC) and Literacy Chicago are just the beginning of localizing The Starbucks Foundation Grant Program.

Additionally, Starbucks has dedicated proceeds from 35 new store opening benefits, raising more than $18,000 for local libraries, literacy groups and schools. More than 50,000 coffee beverages have been donated to support events and literacy programs. More than 15,000 books have been donated to literacy organizations, schools and libraries.