Does Starbucks Support the Military?
As one of the world’s most popular coffee chains, Starbucks is known for its dedication to its customers and employees. But does Starbucks also show its appreciation for those who serve their country? The answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we’ll delve into the various ways Starbucks supports the military and demonstrate its commitment to honoring America’s heroes.
Support for Military Personnel and Their Families
Starbucks offers several programs and benefits for military personnel and their families, including:
- Discounts: Starbucks provides a 10% discount on all purchases for military personnel, veterans, and their families. This discount can be used in-store or online.
- Benefits for Military Spouses: Starbucks offers benefits specifically designed for military spouses, including flexible scheduling, parental leave, and career development opportunities.
- Hire-From-Home: Starbucks’ Hire-From-Home program allows veterans and military spouses to apply for remote work opportunities, giving them the flexibility to balance their work and personal responsibilities.
Partnership with the USO
Starbucks has partnered with the United Service Organizations (USO) to provide support to military personnel and their families. The USO is a non-profit organization that provides entertainment, care packages, and other essential services to troops stationed overseas and at home. Through this partnership, Starbucks:
- Donates: Starbucks donates money, coffee, and supplies to the USO, helping to support their operations and programs.
- Raises Awareness: Starbucks helps raise awareness about the USO’s mission and services, encouraging customers to support their efforts.
- Employee Engagement: Starbucks partners are encouraged to participate in USO events and fundraisers, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among employees.
Charitable Giving
Starbucks is committed to giving back to the community, and a significant portion of its charitable efforts goes towards supporting the military and their families. In 2020, Starbucks donated:
- $1.1 Million: To the USO, supporting their operations and programs.
- $500,000: To the Wounded Warrior Project, helping to provide care and support to wounded veterans.
- $250,000: To the Military Order of the Purple Heart, supporting veterans and their families.
Starbucks’ Commitment to Hiring Veterans
Starbucks is dedicated to hiring and supporting veterans, offering a range of benefits and opportunities to help them succeed in their careers. These benefits include:
- VetJobs: Starbucks is a partner with VetJobs, a job placement organization that connects veterans with job opportunities.
- Military Talent Acquisition: Starbucks has a dedicated team responsible for recruiting and hiring veterans and military spouses.
- Veteran-Focused Training: Starbucks provides specialized training for veterans, focusing on skills such as customer service, leadership, and team management.
Starbucks’ Military-Themed Menu Items
Starbucks has released several military-themed menu items over the years, with a portion of the proceeds going towards supporting the USO and other military-related charities. Some popular items include:
| Item | Description | Beneficiary |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks Red Cup | Limited-edition red cups available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the USO | USO |
| Stars & Stripes Frappuccino | A specialty frappuccino featuring patriotic colors and flavors, with proceeds supporting the Wounded Warrior Project | Wounded Warrior Project |
| Liberty Bell Mocha | A festive holiday drink featuring notes of vanilla and caramel, with proceeds supporting the Military Order of the Purple Heart | Military Order of the Purple Heart |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Starbucks’ support for the military is evident in its numerous programs, benefits, and charitable efforts. From discounts and benefits for military personnel and their families to its partnership with the USO and charitable giving, Starbucks is committed to honoring and supporting those who serve their country. Whether through its menu items, employee engagement, or community outreach, Starbucks is a shining example of a company that cares deeply about the military and its families.
