Flowers for Futures

This spring, Panera Bread cafes throughout Central Florida sold Tulip Cookies in support of Foundation for Foster Children (FFC), a local organization dedicated to providing support and advocacy to children in foster care.

Through the sales of the spring themed cookies and donations made in the community bread boxes at the registers, Panera was able to generously give FFC $11,228.40 which will be used to continue their wonderful programs that provide support for foster children in the Greater Orlando area. In the 11 years of partnership, Panera has donated over $500,000 toward FFC’s mission.

“There are so many kids in foster care, often feeling like a number in a very standardized system. Since the very beginning, Panera has been a strong partner helping to create meaningful connections for children in foster care through personalized support” said Robert Newkirk, Executive Director, Foundation for Foster Children. “Not only a consistent financial supporter, Panera has increased our awareness in the community and helped connect our kids in foster care to jobs, as well. Together we support amazing, resilient kids who are navigating through a world that is often confusing and scary, but they are just kids who want to belong, as we all do. None of this can we do without the strong support from the community leaders like Panera Bread.”

Panera Bread customers are the reason for this campaign’s success, as customers continuously show their support for initiatives like this.

“Not only a consistent financial supporter, Panera has increased our awareness in the community and helped connect our kids in foster care to jobs, as well. Together we support amazing, resilient kids who are navigating through a world that is often confusing and scary, but they are just kids who want to belong, as we all do.”