When disaster strikes, it doesn’t just disrupt daily life — it reshapes communities.

With more than 10,000 Starbucks coffeehouses across the U.S., our partners (employees) and neighborhoods are often at the heart of these moments. And in Southern California, the wildfires that swept through our region in January were no exception. 

As a regional director, my role goes far beyond operations. It’s about showing up in times like these, and leading with urgency, compassion and purpose. Most important, it’s about ensuring our partners and communities receive the support they deserve. 

A purpose-driven approach  

In the wake of the fires, nearly two dozen Starbucks partners lost their homes and close to 500 were displaced or evacuated. One of our beloved community coffeehouses was left nearly unrecognizable. But what happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. 

Our partners stepped up. Baristas served free coffee and food to first responders, including providing more than 2,500 cups, on us, to those who visited our coffeehouses. District managers and regional leaders worked one-on-one with partners, helping them navigate challenges with support from catastrophe pay and Caring Unites Partners (CUP) Fund grants. 

Companywide, Starbucks partners rallied together — donating over $90,000 through the CUP Fund to nearly 200 fellow partners in need. The Starbucks Foundation committed more than $1 million to over 50 local and national nonprofit organizations. And as a Gold Sponsor of the FireAid Benefit Concert, Starbucks contributed another $1 million to support recovery efforts. Our customers joined us in solidarity, donating more than $450,000 to the Red Cross at the register across our U.S. coffeehouses. 

This was a powerful example of how we use our scale for good — intentionally, and when it matters most. In times of crisis—whether natural or man-made — our responses are purpose-driven from all levels. Our coffeehouses become hubs of connection, and our partners give support to their communities with compassion and resilience. 

A new chapter begins in Palisades 

Now, more than six months later, we’re proud to celebrate a new beginning. Our Palisades Highland Plaza Starbucks has now officially reopened its doors. Our mighty crew of eight is bringing back the third place to our beloved community. This moment is more than a reopening, it’s a sign that we are on the path of rebuilding together. 

Coffeehouse leader Jayla shared, “My cup is so full. This last week has been overwhelming in such a positive way. The way the community has shown up is fantastic, and I can’t wait to see what’s possible in the next three to six months.” 

A space to reconnect 

This new Palisades coffeehouse embodies the feeling we are looking to bring to the rest of our coffeehouses nationwide. There is more seating, soft chairs, community tables, live plants and a dark and cozy color palette — all of which, together, create a warm and welcoming coffeehouse for our Palisades customers to sit and stay a while.  

Whether through in-kind donations, volunteerism, or simply offering a place to gather, the Palisades Starbucks is committed to strengthening its community — one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.