Coke Florida Marks 100th Anniversary of Black History Month with Expanded Investments in Education and Economic Empowerment
Celebrating a Century of Black History with Meaningful Action
As the nation commemorates the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) is celebrating the historic milestone with renewed purpose and measurable impact. The company is reinforcing its long-standing commitment to education, digital equity, and economic empowerment through sustained community investments across Florida.
Rather than limiting its observance to symbolic recognition, Coke Florida is using this landmark anniversary as an opportunity to expand initiatives that create long-term change. Through financial contributions, technology access programs, and workforce development support, the company continues to invest in opportunities that strengthen communities and help build a more inclusive future.
A Black-Owned Industry Leader Driving Community Impact
As one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States, Coke Florida plays a unique and influential role in corporate America. The company’s leadership sees Black History Month not only as a time to honor the legacy and contributions of Black Americans, but also as a responsibility to help create pathways for future generations.
By aligning its community engagement strategy with education and technology access, Coke Florida focuses on practical, high-impact initiatives that address systemic barriers. The company’s efforts are rooted in the belief that expanding access to digital tools, educational resources, and workforce readiness programs can help unlock economic mobility for individuals and families across Florida.
Surpassing $1 Million in Technology Access Investments
Since launching its technology access initiatives in 2018, Coke Florida has invested more than $1 million to support programs aimed at increasing digital access throughout the state. These investments are designed to address the digital divide—an issue that continues to impact students, job seekers, and underserved communities.
Digital access has become essential for participation in today’s economy. From remote learning and virtual classrooms to job applications and professional training, reliable access to devices and technology infrastructure is no longer optional. Coke Florida’s sustained funding reflects its understanding that digital equity is foundational to educational and economic success.
The company’s investments have been directed toward schools, nonprofit organizations, and community-based institutions that serve populations with limited access to technology resources. By prioritizing long-term partnerships, Coke Florida ensures that its contributions deliver lasting benefits rather than short-term relief.
2026 Commitment: Expanding Device Donations Across Florida
As part of its 2026 Black History Month programming, Coke Florida will donate 300 new laptops to schools, nonprofits, and community organizations statewide. With this latest contribution, the company’s total device distribution will reach nearly 2,100 laptops since the program’s inception.
These laptops are more than just equipment—they are tools for opportunity. The donated devices support:
- Remote and hybrid learning for students
- Job training and workforce development programs
- Skills-building workshops for adults
- Career readiness initiatives for young professionals
By providing reliable, up-to-date technology, Coke Florida helps remove barriers that prevent individuals from fully participating in educational and professional environments. The laptops enable students to complete assignments, adults to pursue certifications, and job seekers to access employment platforms and training resources.
Strengthening Workforce Readiness and Economic Mobility
Beyond educational support, Coke Florida’s technology investments directly contribute to workforce readiness. In an increasingly digital economy, technical proficiency is critical across industries—including food and beverage manufacturing, logistics, distribution, retail operations, and corporate functions.
Access to technology allows individuals to:
- Develop digital literacy skills
- Complete online certifications
- Participate in virtual interviews
- Engage in professional development programs
By equipping communities with digital tools, Coke Florida supports broader economic mobility efforts. These initiatives help prepare individuals for sustainable careers and create stronger local economies throughout Florida.
Percy L. Wells II, Group Vice President of Government Relations, Public Affairs, and Communications, emphasized the company’s long-term approach:
At Coke Florida, Black History Month is not just about reflection—it’s about continued actions to pay it forward. By maintaining our focus on technology, education, and access to resources year after year, we’re helping people gain the tools they need to reach their full potential and strengthening the communities we proudly serve.
His statement reflects the company’s philosophy that consistent action, rather than one-time gestures, produces meaningful progress.
Investing in Community Technology Labs
Coke Florida’s commitment to closing the digital divide extends beyond device donations. Recognizing that infrastructure matters as much as equipment, the company has invested in upgrading and establishing community technology labs across the state.
Since 2021, Coke Florida has refreshed or enhanced 24 computer labs, with six additional labs scheduled for dedication this year. These spaces are designed to provide inclusive, accessible learning environments that support a range of educational and workforce needs.
Community technology labs serve as hubs where students, job seekers, and community members can:
- Access high-speed internet
- Utilize updated software and hardware
- Participate in structured training sessions
- Receive mentorship and educational support
By modernizing these facilities, Coke Florida helps ensure that communities have sustainable access to shared digital resources. These labs often become focal points for collaboration, skill-building, and community engagement.
A Long-Term Strategy for Sustainable Impact
Coke Florida’s investments demonstrate a strategic, long-term approach rather than a seasonal campaign tied solely to Black History Month. The company integrates community engagement into its broader corporate responsibility framework, aligning its philanthropic efforts with measurable outcomes.
The emphasis on education, technology, and economic empowerment reflects an understanding that opportunity creation requires consistent support. By focusing on digital inclusion, Coke Florida addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing underserved communities.
As digital transformation accelerates across industries, initiatives that enhance access to technology play a critical role in preparing individuals for the future of work. Through its sustained financial commitments and hands-on partnerships, Coke Florida is contributing to a more equitable economic landscape in Florida.
SOURCE LINK: https://www.businesswire.com/
