As World Education Day commences on September 28, Chiquita Brands International announced it has reached 33 percent of its education aid program goals. The goal is to reach 100 schools and 20,000 children by the year 2020, and to date, Chiquita said it has provided support for 33 schools. This includes building and renovating school infrastructure as well as providing learning materials for the children. Chiquita currently provides these for the children of its farm-workers throughout the countries where its business is rooted, including Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama and Honduras.
“We believe that educating children is one simple way we can make the greatest impact on the families and communities of our employees,”said Jamie Postell, Director of Sales North America for Chiquita. “At Chiquita, it is so important that we stay true to the pillar that reminds us to be a Good Neighbor, and we believe this education program helps us to do just that.”
In Costa Rica and Guatemala, school children receive a special kit containing many of the basic materials required by the Education Ministry, while in Panama and Honduras, the company provides scholarships.
In addition, community projects are also supported, such as investing in school infrastructure, helping children receive an education, creating environmental awareness and promoting social empowerment. Chiquita believes that helping children receive a valuable primary education will have a positive, long-lasting impact on not only the children, but also the communities they reside in.
“We are thrilled that by 2020 Chiquita plans to reach 100 schools and 20,000 children by building and renovating school infrastructure as well as providing learning materials,” said Jamie Postell. “By starting on our own farms with pilot projects, we intend to expand our program to even more countries.”
Another part of the program aims to provide healthcare aid as well. For example, in Costa Rica children in the banana farm neighborhoods are invited to receive visual and dental care, education and free teeth cleaning kits. The impact of such outreach is especially valued in areas where educational levels tend to be low, and where access to diagnostic facilities is limited due to distance from medical centers and the cost involved.
For more information:
Bridget Mackey
Tel: +1 (973) 588-2169
bmackey@coynepr.com
www.chiquita.com