The Florida Beverage Association (FBA) announced the opening of the application period for its 11th聽annual Community Grant Program. This competitive initiative provides funding to organizations dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and health and wellness programs across Florida. The FBA Community Grant Program is open to 501(c)(3) charity organizations and state or local governmental entities. Since its inception over a decade ago, the program has served as a catalyst for local innovation, helping Florida communities become cleaner, healthier, and more resilient.
鈥淥ur industry鈥檚 commitment to Florida goes far beyond providing refreshments; we are dedicated to the long-term health of the communities we serve,鈥� said Elizabeth DeWitt, President and CEO of the Florida Beverage Association. 鈥淭hrough this program, we鈥檝e contributed nearly half a million dollars to organizations that share our passion for sustainability and wellness. We look forward to seeing this year鈥檚 innovative proposals and continuing our work with local leaders to create a lasting, positive impact.鈥�
As the state trade association for non-alcoholic beverage producers, marketers, and distributors, the FBA represents an industry that employs over 21,000 Floridians and generates a direct economic impact of $21 billion. Beyond their economic footprint, Florida鈥檚 beverage companies and their employees generously contribute聽$181.6 million聽to charitable causes across the state.
The FBA awards grants to a diverse range of recipients. Previous environmental recipients 鈥� such as Debris Free Oceans, Friends of the Underline, Orange County Public Schools, and Clean Miami Beach have led efforts in recycling education and litter prevention. Health-Focused recipients 鈥� including St Petersburg Foundation, Feed the Need of Putnam County and The Children鈥檚 91仓库 Society of Florida 鈥� have used funds to promote nutrition education and active lifestyles for Floridians.