Starbucks’ charity arm and its regional operator in the Middle East and North Africa 'AlShaya Group' announced on Tuesday a $3 million donation to the food charity World Central Kitchen.

The Kuwait-based AlShaya Group, which operates around 1,900 stores across the region, and the Starbucks Foundation committed to a $3 million donation to World Central Kitchen in March for the provision of one million meals to people in Gaza. The two entities also announced an employee donation-matching initiative to raise funds for food aid in Gaza via the aid organization, AlShaya Group said in a statement. For perspective, World Central Kitchen’s aid shipment from Cyprus in late March brought in enough food for one million meals.

In a statement, Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of the Alshaya Group, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic events unfolding in Gaza, emphasizing their commitment to supporting local communities and partners. He affirmed that through these donations, they aim to provide essential aid and relief to the people of Gaza.

Echoing this sentiment, Duncan Moir, President of Starbucks Europe, Middle East, and Africa, conveyed profound sadness for those impacted by the crisis in Gaza, particularly those facing the threat of hunger.

Moir emphasized Starbucks' broader mission beyond coffee, stating their dedication to making positive contributions and supporting initiatives that do the same.