Introducing the Starbucks Puerto Rico Tacita Verde Fund
In the wake of the devastating impacts of Hurricane Maria in September 2017, our Puerto Rican partners (employees), like the rest of the citizens on the Island, are now facing a long and difficult road to recovery. Many are still assessing damages to their homes and their communities, a task made much tougher due to the lack of power, limited connectivity, and long lines for necessities like water, ice, gas and food.
Despite these unimaginable challenges, our partners have not lost hope. They are an example of the kind of strength and resilience we have seen each day from our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters. They share a profound love for our Siren, and stand ready to come together to rebuild our beautiful Puerto Rico – one person, one cup, one neighborhood at a time.
Inspired by our partners, and our commitment as a company to use our scale for good, Starbucks has created the Tacita Verde Fund – the first-ever fund dedicated to help Puerto Rican partners and their families in need. Through an initial contribution of $100,000, including $50,000 from Baristas del Caribe, a subsidiary of Empresas Fonalledas Inc. which owns and operates all local Starbucks® stores, as well as a $50,000 matching contribution from Starbucks Coffee Company, the Tacita Verde Fund will help provide financial grants to partners with critical needs ranging from urgent home repairs to food or medical needs.