Odwalla today announced plans to donate 100 percent of the profit from sales of its new Haiti Hope Mango Lime-Aid to help provide training and better market access to 25,000 mango farmers in Haiti as part of a long-term investment in the country’s economic development.
Odwalla’s contributions will aid Haiti’s recovery from January’s devastating earthquake and support the island nation’s long-term reconstruction as part of the Haiti Hope Project, a large-scale, five-year initiative spearheaded by The Coca-Cola Company.
“Odwalla is all about sustainable living and doing good things for the community, and the Haiti Hope Project fits perfectly with our mission,” said Chris Brandt, vice president of marketing, Odwalla. “This isn’t a one-time donation. This is a long-term commitment that will gain strength with every refreshing Haiti Hope Mango Lime-Aid enjoyed by thirsty consumers.”
Currently, it is estimated that Haiti reaps only 20 percent of the potential value of its mango sector – one of the country’s top three exports. The Haiti Hope Project brings together a coalition of private and public sector partners and will be implemented by TechnoServe, a nonprofit that empowers entrepreneurs in the developing world. The Project will create opportunities for 25,000 Haitian mango farmers to double their incomes, with a focus on growing crops more efficiently and improving their access to markets.
In addition, the Haiti Hope Project will support research to identify mango varieties best suited for processing into juice, encouraging investments in local juice processing capacity and improvements in related transportation infrastructure. Haitian mango farmers also will receive
technical training and guidance on how to diversify their income-generating activities and ensure responsible environmental and labor practices at the farm level.
“We invite everyone to raise a bottle to a more fruitful future for Haiti,” Brandt said. “It’s a perfect opportunity to savor some real Odwalla goodness while doing something good at the same time.”
The launch of Odwalla’s Haiti Hope Mango Lime-Aid is the first in a series of initiatives by The Coca-Cola Company that will support the Haiti Hope Project over the next several years. Through sales of its new flavor, Odwalla hopes to raise more than $500,000 to benefit the cause. The introduction of the new product is being supported by reallocating resources and leveraging several of The Coca-Cola Company’s existing advertising assets. Marketing efforts will include the Coca-Cola Outdoor Digital Advertising Network, as well as targeted print and online
campaigns.
Available in 450 mL (15.2 fl. oz) grab-n-go recyclable plastic bottles as well as half gallon sizes, Haiti Hope Mango Lime-Aid is available in the refrigerated section of natural food stores, select supermarkets and specialty outlets throughout the United States.
Along with the purchase of Haiti Hope Mango Lime-Aid, anyone can support the Haiti Hope Project by texting the word “Mango” to 50555. A donation of $10 will be added automatically to the individual’s mobile phone statement. Donors also will be able to opt in to receive up-to-date information on the Haiti Hope Project throughout the life of the initiative.
About The Haiti Hope Project
The mission of the Haiti Hope Project is to create opportunity for 25,000 Haitian mango farmers and their families by helping to develop a sustainable mango juice industry. The Haiti Hope Project seeks to double the income of these farmers and raise their standard of living. The donation of 100 percent of the profits from the sale of designated Haiti Hope beverages will help fund this effort to facilitate Haiti’s recovery from the devastating earthquake
in January and contribute to the long-term development of the island nation.
About Odwalla
Odwalla Inc., the nation’s leading natural health beverage company, delivers nourishment coast to coast with the Odwalla family of juices, juice drinks, soy beverages and nourishing food bars. Odwalla has been making juices and innovating in the natural health beverage category for nearly 30 years. Its nourishing beverages and food bars are available in natural food stores, select supermarkets and specialty outlets throughout the country. To learn more about Odwalla products and Odwalla’s commitment to the environment, please visit www.Odwalla.com or call 1.800.ODWALLA. Also follow Odwalla on Facebook and Twitter (@Odwalla).
About TechnoServe
TechnoServe is a leader in a movement that empowers people in the developing world to build businesses that break the cycle of poverty. Growing enterprises generate jobs and other income opportunities for poor people, enabling them to improve their lives and secure a better future for their families. Since its founding in 1968, the U.S.-based nonprofit has helped to create or expand thousands of businesses, benefiting millions of people in more than 30 countries. The Financial Times has rated TechnoServe one of the top five NGOs for corporate partnerships. Apart from The Coca-Cola Company, TechnoServe’s corporate partners include Cargill, Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Nestlé-Nespresso, Olam International, Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Unilever, among others. Charity Navigator also has awarded its highest Four Star ranking to TechnoServe. For more information about our organization, please visit our website at www.technoserve.org.
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