Chiquita Donates 1 Million Bananas to Communities Impacted by COVID-19 Across the U.S.

Fort Lauderdale, FL – April 2, 2020 – Recognizing its responsibility as a leader in fresh produce, Chiquita is acting as a ‘Good Neighbor’ and providing relief to families across the U.S. during these unprecedented times. Through partnerships with organizations including Feeding America^(R), the YMCA and various hospitals and school districts, Chiquita has donated one million bananas to vulnerable populations such as children and seniors who have been greatly impacted by food shortages. Additionally, Chiquita has removed Miss Chiquita from the Blue Sticker logo for the first time in history, leading by example and encouraging Americans to stay home and safe during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“At the heart of Chiquita, we are farmers and banana growers who recognize our responsibility to provide nutritious bananas to people facing food insecurity during these uncertian times,” said Chiquita’s President Carlos Lopez Flores. “We are fortunate that we are able to donate fresh bananas to the many organizations in need and will continue to work with our partners at a local and national level to ensure we’re maintaining our mission of being a Good Neighbor. We hope our donations not only provide the much needed nutrition, but also a smile to those in need.”

Chiquita bananas are a healthy, convenient snack rich in essential vitamins and minerals. They provide natural sugars and a generous helping of fiber, making them an ideal snack and recipe ingredient to help maintain energy throughout the day. Chiquita is providing its nutritious bananas to various organizations, including: Feeding America^(R) and its member food banks such as the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, the YMCA, several school districts in the Greater Los Angeles County including Los Angeles Unified School District, several hospitals including Jackson Memorial and various non-profit organizations including Lotus House, Fresh Point, Camillus House and Flipany.

“Proper nutrition is critical for a healthy lifestlye, and many people across the country are losing access to food due to school and business closures, as well as other challenges,” said Mike Piotrowski, Director of Produce Operations at Feeding America^(R). “We’re proud to have generous partners like Chiquita on our side, who not only fight hunger year-round, but are also stepping up to address the increased need that has resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“We are incredibly grateful to be working with Chiquita to offer essential resources to people in need during this challenging situation,” said Mario Valenzuela, Executive Director of the Weingart East Los Angeles YMCA. “Senior Citizens make up a high percentage of the YMCA community, and this age group is facing a strong impact from this global pandemic. Any way we can assist in securing vital resources for them is incredibly helpful during this time.”

Chiquita is also offering safe, at-home activities on its website. Fans can check out a variety of interactive online puzzles, games and recipes for families in need of activities while at home, which can be found at https://www.chiquita.com/playwithchiquita.

To learn more, visit www.chiquitabrands.com.

High-res images can be found here.

For media inquiries, contact Bridget Mackey (bmackey@coynepr.com).