Food Companies Provide Aid to Japan

U.S. food companies, along with a host of international relief organizations, are responding to the devastation caused by the March 11 deadly 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan.

The Kraft Foods Foundation donated $200,000 to the Red Cross days after the earthquake and tsunami devastated the country. The company also committed to donating food and funds Japan's long-term recovery efforts, and all donations made by Kraft Foods employees in the United States and Japan to the Red Cross will be matched by the Foundation.

“Every second, every dollar counts in the wake of a disaster," said Nicole Robinson, vice president of the Kraft Foods Foundation. “We’re grateful that our Japanese colleagues are unharmed, and deeply saddened by the devastation these natural disasters have caused. As the world’s second-largest food company, it’s our responsibility to give back in times of crisis. We’re proud to partner with the Red Cross as they support all the people of Japan in rescue, rebuilding and relief efforts."

Coca-Cola has pledged ¥600 million in cash and product donations to the relief effort. The contribution includes more than 7 million bottles water, tea and sports drinks. Coca-Cola Japan and its 12 bottling partners will provide the beverages to national and local government authorities and other community groups for distribution. The system also has activated free dispensing of products from selected vending machines.

Starbucks Coffee Co. and Starbucks Coffee Japan will contribute ¥100 million to aid immediate humanitarian and relief efforts in partnership with the American Red Cross and Japan Red Cross.

“We feel a tremendous sense of urgency to respond to the crisis. Our hearts go out to people across Japan, including our partners (employees) who have been impacted by this horrible tragedy," said John Culver, president, Starbucks Coffee International.

McDonald’s Corp., which has 3,302 restaurants in Japan, announced a $2-million donation that will be International Federation of the Red Cross.

“The devastation in Japan has stunned and saddened the global community, and we’re reaching out to help with this contribution," said Jim Skinner, McDonald’s CEO. “We send our best to everyone affected by this disaster, including our employees and our customers."