For Immediate Release: June 5, 2019
Annual Food Drive Benefiting Harvest Hope Food Bank Begins June 11
Planning a trip to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden this summer? Guests visiting on a Toucan Tuesday will receive BOGO admission to Riverbanks with a donation of two cans of food to Harvest Hope Food Bank. The Zoo’s annual summer-long food drive benefiting Harvest Hope will kick off Tuesday, June 11.
Last summer, the generosity of Zoo guests generated 3,658 pounds of food and provided more than 3,000 meals for struggling families in the Midlands. The food drive has brought in nearly 40,000 pounds of food since the partnership began in 2010.
“Hunger doesn’t take a summer vacation,” said Wendy Broderick, CEO at Harvest Hope Food Bank. “As our donations drop by 42% over the summer, we typically see a 30% increase in demand for food during the summer months when free and reduced breakfast and lunch options aren’t available for school children.”
Discount admission isn’t the only perk guests will enjoy for contributing on a Toucan Tuesday. Individuals who donate also can take advantage of other cool savings including the purchase of one $2 ICEE (16oz.), one $2 fountain drink (24oz.), a two for $20 special on misting fans, plus a two for $5 special on reusable straws (wristbands to show proof of donation will be provided; limit one wristband per donor).
Toucan Tuesdays will take place every Tuesday, June 11 – August 13. The promotion applies to general admission rates only (purchase one admission and get the second for equal or lesser value free; Explorer wristbands and Riverbanks’ memberships are not included). Donation bins will be located at both the Zoo and Garden entrances.