Our vision is for a world where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and two-spirit young people feel validated, involved and empowered to lead healthy lives. "We are proud to be partnering with Friends of Ruby to celebrate the LGBTQI2S community and uplift all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and two-spirit young people to feel empowered in their identities."įriends of Ruby supports LGBTQI2S youth (aged 16-29) through drop-in services and programming, mental health and wellness support, case management and practical support services, housing and a sense of community. "At KitKat, we are committed to encouraging individuality and self-expression," said Mark Cecchetto, President, Confectionery, Nestlé Canada. Additional special events and initiatives are being planned for Pride and LGBTQ History Month to help gain reach and raise awareness for the community and organization. All proceeds from every sale will be donated to Friends of Ruby. Available from February 11 – 28 at the KitKat Chocolatory store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, the one-of-a-kind ruby chocolate bars will feature special packaging designed by the Friends of Ruby team. The partnership includes financial support of the Friends of Ruby mental health programs and the release of a limited-edition KitKat bar.
The proceeds from the Skittles Pride Packs will help to support GLAAD's culture-changing work and programs, including our ongoing efforts to work through media to combat anti-LGBTQ discrimination.As the brand that's been synonymous with breaks for over 85 years, KitKat Chocolatory and Friends of Ruby share the value of taking time to celebrate who you are and acknowledge the support that Chosen Families provide. "Visibility from beloved brands like Skittles has a powerful and unique opportunity to reach parents and young Americans with calls to stand with LGBTQ people during Pride month and beyond. "For another year, Skittles is giving up its traditional rainbow colors for Pride Month, highlighting its ongoing commitment to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ community," said John McCourt, GLAAD senior director. More details on what the brand will be doing will be announced at a later date. In addition to Skittles Pride packs, Skittles is planning to support the LGBTQ+ community in other ways throughout the month of June and later in the year.
Additional availability in-store at select Walmart, Kroger, Albertson's and other retail locations nationwide will begin at the end of May and into early June. Skittles Pride Packs will be available for purchase beginning mid-May on, and in Target stores. While the usual colors won’t appear on the packaging and candies, Pride Packs will feature the original five fruity flavors of Strawberry, Orange, Grape, Green Apple and Lemon. The limited-edition packs will be available for purchase in 4-oz.
Skittles giving up their rainbow means so much more than just removing the colors from our Skittles packs, and we're excited to use our platform to do our part in driving visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, creating better moments and more smiles." We are thrilled to continue our partnership with GLAAD to support the important work they do year-round. “Through the return of Skittles Pride Packs, we emphasize our commitment to not only being a great place to work, where all associates can feel seen and accepted, but also our commitment to people in our communities by continuing to shape a world that is connected, caring and celebratory. " Skittles is passionate about advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, which is why we have chosen to bring back Skittles Pride Packs as a symbol of our cemented efforts and support for the community,” said Sarah Ling, chief marketing officer, Mars Wrigley North America.
During the month of June, $1 per pack purchased will be donated to GLAAD, up to $100,000. The brand is also partnering with GLAAD, the world's leading LGBTQ+ media advocacy group.