As we celebrate our liberty and patriotic pride this month, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on some recent acts of charity within the beverage community that have truly shown that we are one united industry with common causes.

After a massive tornado devastated Moore, Okla., on May 20, many groups rushed to the aid of survivors, including beverage companies.

St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch dispatched a truck carrying 2,156 cases of canned emergency drinking water a day after the tornado to support relief workers and Oklahoma residents. The company worked with the American Red Cross to ensure that the water was distributed where it was most needed and donated an additional $25,000 to Red Cross relief efforts. 

Member companies of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), Alexandria, Va., also rushed to Oklahoma’s aid, delivering nearly 400,000 bottles of drinking water as of May 30. IBWA also pledged to continue to provide water as needed throughout the recovery process.

Across the country, foodservice venues also did their part to contribute to the relief efforts. Las Vegas-based Coyote Ugly Saloon hosted a nationwide charity event May 29 at all of its corporate-owned U.S. locations and donated 100 percent of the proceeds to the American Red Cross. Seattle-based Starbucks Coffee Co. inspired its customers to support relief efforts by offering a free tall coffee at participating locations on May 29 to customers who donated to the Oklahoma Strong Disaster Relief Fund of United Way. The company also contributed $250,000 to the relief efforts for a grand total donation of nearly $1 million toward Oklahoma tornado relief and rebuilding.

 With manufacturers representing different categories and spread across the country, it’s heartwarming to see the beverage industry come together to support our fellow Americans.