Starbucks Corp., Seattle, is celebrating its commitment to communities by launching a charitable whole bean coffee blend, offering discounted whole bean coffees and bringing back fall favorites.  

The company is bringing back Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition, a partner and customer favorite whole bean coffee, in Starbucks U.S. retail stores. Beginning Oct. 4, Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition will feature a $5 donation card to DonorsChoose.org allowing customers to donate directly to a school classroom project of their choice. DonorsChoose.org is an online non-profit organization that allows public school teachers across America to post classroom needs online and gives individuals the ability to contribute directly to a specific project.

Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition was introduced in grocery stores in 2009 to honor the company’s relationship with MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” program and the shared interest in education and community involvement.

“We are pleased to continue to combine our unique relationship with MSNBC to highlight examples of innovative approaches to strengthening communities where educational support is critical,” said Cecilia Carter, vice president of global diversity, community and government affairs for Starbucks Coffee Co., in a statement. “In addition to supporting DonorsChoose.org, every month ’Morning Joe’ features one individual who is a champion for education, utilizing new ideas to create a positive impact on local education and local communities. Additionally, ‘Morning Joe’ will broadcast live from select schools across the country to showcase educators and communities making a difference.”

Starbucks also is encouraging customers to discover or rediscover the variety of flavors of Starbucks whole bean coffees. Now through Oct. 2, customers who buy any two Starbucks packaged coffee or Starbucks Via Ready Brew at participating grocery stores will receive an offer for a $5 Starbucks Card eGift redeemable online.

The company also is bringing back the Pumpkin Spice Latte for its eighth season. Additionally, for a limited time, customers can choose from a broad selection of Salted Caramel beverages, including the new Salted Caramel Mocha.

“This is the time of year when customers transition from the care-free days of summer to the more familiar routines of fall,” said Annie Young-Scrivner, global chief marketing officer for Starbucks Coffee Co., in a statement. “Starbucks is the destination for helping customers move into the fall season with the warmth of our handcrafted, personalized beverages, breakfast and lunch options, or afternoon treats.”

Returning again for the 17^th year in stores is the Starbucks Anniversary Blend. Starbucks Anniversary Blend is a spicy, complex and full-bodied coffee made with a blend of Asia-Pacific coffees, including aged Sumatra, the company says. It retails for $14.95.