Over the years, Starbucks has closely collaborated with The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN) to promote food security within communities, especially those struggling to access nutritious food, and to reduce food waste globally.

Through this partnership, Starbucks has connected with food banks across various countries, contributing millions of meals to those in need. By leveraging surplus food from its stores, Starbucks not only helps reduce food waste but also contributes effectively to community support programs, minimizing CO2 emissions through recycled green materials.

With funding for GFN, Starbucks will support the expansion of food bank capacities in key countries including India, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam. The program’s goal is to enhance food rescue operations, improve food recovery capabilities, and reduce food waste.

In particular, in April 2025, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of “Month of Good,” Starbucks employees in 50 markets worldwide will volunteer at local food relief organizations. To support their efforts, Starbucks commits to contributing 7 million meals through The Global FoodBanking Network.

This partnership reflects the shared values of GFN and Starbucks: nourishing people facing food insecurity; combating food loss and waste, along with its environmental impact; and strengthening communities by filling gaps in local food systems and supporting food banks in addressing hunger.

“We are excited to partner with Starbucks, a highly innovative company that has reshaped the foodservice and coffee industries and is demonstrating leadership in tackling hunger and minimizing food waste. At a time when global hunger is facing numerous challenges, this partnership can serve as a model for collaboration between companies and food banks,” said Lisa Moon, President and CEO of The Global FoodBanking Network.
“Starbucks’ support will drive the growth and efficiency of food banks, allowing them to recover more food, distribute it to those in need, and protect our planet.”

Starbucks’ food relief programs operate in over 30 global markets and have collaborated with several members of the Global FoodBanking Network, including SOS Thailand and the Vietnam Foodbanking Network (VFN), as well as Feeding America (operating in the United States).

Strategic Partnership Between Starbucks and Vietnam Foodbanking Network

Starbucks and the Vietnam Foodbanking Network (VFN) signed a strategic partnership in 2023, marking the beginning of a long-term relationship aimed at addressing urgent food security issues, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainability in Vietnam. This collaboration focuses not only on providing food to communities but also on educational initiatives, livelihood support, and environmental protection.

The two organizations have implemented several impactful projects, including food recovery activities, supporting sustainable agriculture models, and raising awareness about food waste. These initiatives have helped reduce the burden on vulnerable families, improve quality of life, and foster a circular economy in local communities recovering from the effects of natural disasters.

One notable project is the recovery of surplus food from Starbucks stores in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, which is then distributed to orphanages, social welfare centers, and community organizations. This program has significantly reduced food waste and is integrated into the “Bếp Yêu Thương” (The Love Kitchen) initiative, which prepares meals and provides nutritious food for those in need, including homeless individuals on the streets and at beneficiary organizations.

Additionally, Starbucks and VFN have strengthened recycling initiatives, such as collecting tea and coffee grounds from Starbucks stores to recycle into organic fertilizers for community food gardens. This initiative not only reduces CO2 emissions from food waste but also contributes to environmental protection and promotes community food gardens, enriching soil for vegetable cultivation and providing support to those in need.

Moving forward, both parties are committed to continuing to expand and develop programs that will have a long-lasting and powerful impact on communities and the environment in Vietnam. With the collaboration of Starbucks, The Global FoodBanking Network, and the Vietnam Foodbanking Network, these initiatives will directly benefit people by building a more responsible food usage society and creating sustainable long-term value for the community.

Source: Compiled