The American Red Cross has announced that it is partnering with Keebler to furnish a cookie snack to all blood donors — a savings of nearly $2 million over the next year for the Red Cross.
Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross, said the relationship between the organization and Keebler will help show appreciation to donors.
“We are fortunate to work with a partner who believes, as we do, that a simple act of kindness by one person can significantly impact the life of another,” McGovern said. “Offering a delicious Keebler cookie to our generous blood donors nationwide is our way of thanking them for their time and generous donation.”
According to a information released by Keebler officials, the two entities believe it will be a good relationship.
The Red Cross, through its nearly four million blood donors, provides blood and blood products to those in need, as well as other humanitarian acts.
The Keebler brand, as well as its parent company Kellogg, have already been a part of the effort to support local blood drives and other services for many years. In addition, the Keebler brand has long stood for its “Elfin” baked goodies.
Evan Duffy, communications manager for the Alabama Gulf Coast Region of the Red Cross, said the Red Cross will receive around six million cookies to be given to those who give blood at one of their blood drives.
“It seems such a small thing, but it will make a big difference in our budget,” Duffy said.
The Red Cross is a charitable organization, not a government agency, and it depends on the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The savings to The Red Cross over the course of a year, which will be provided by Keebler will be substantial.
Todd Penegor, Kellogg president of US Snacks, said the value of their contribution is hoped to be an inspiration to others.
“We believe in the value of doing uncommonly good deeds and are excited to be partnering with the American Red Cross to encourage all eligible people in America to give blood and recognize them for doing so,” Penegor said. “We hope that our giving back to the people that give to others will inspire even more simple acts of kindness.”