Chiquita advocates for children’s educational aid in honor of World Education Day

As World Education Day commences on September 28, Chiquita Brands International, the world’s foremost banana purveyor, is proud to announce it has reached 33 % 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 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 educational benefits for the children of its farm-workers throughout the countries where its business is rooted, including Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama and Honduras.

The current educational aid program supports the children of Chiquita farm workers. In Costa Rica and Guatemala, Chiquita provides school children a special kit containing many of the basic materials required by the Education Ministry, while in Panama and Honduras, Chiquita provides scholarships.

In addition, Chiquita initiates and supports community projects, such as investing in school infrastructure, helping children receive an education, creating environmental awareness and promoting social empowerment. Chiquita firmly 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.

Chiquita is not only involved in education for school-aged children, but also looks 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.