In 2001 our International social mission focused mainly on product donation and in the UK, philanthropy. Markets in France, Benelux, Canada, and Lebanon continued to focus on strengthening the business. At the end of 2001 operations in Japan were closed due to a weak market.

In 1998 we launched the PartnerBus program with a renovated school bus (named the Flying Friesian) for scooping. We operate the Flying Friesian to benefit ChildLine, a national helpline for mentally and physically abused children. In 2001 we raised over $15,500, compared to $22,700 in 2000, for their CHIPS program (ChildLine in Partnership with Schools). The decrease in funds raised was a result of repairs needed for the bus and the cancellation of two key events due to the recent foot and mouth disease.

KidsCause.org is a web site initiative founded and funded by Ben & Jerry’s UK. Ben & Jerry’s UK is working with social service partners to help disadvantaged kids through several projects. The KidsCause website gives information regarding children’s funding activities and it also serves to heighten awareness of the needs of kids in the UK. In 2001 KidsCause gave $88,889 to nonprofit organizations. Examples of organizations who received funding include Alone in London, Peace Child International, National Missing Persons Helpline and The Children�s Society. To learn more about these and other grant recipients go to www.KidsCause.org.