HERSHEY, Pa. (WHTM) — Hershey announced a five-year agreement with nine cocoa-producing cooperatives based in Côte d’Ivoire on Wednesday as part of its “Cocoa For Good” strategy to address challenges to cocoa farmers.

According to Hershey, this agreement is part of a decade-long, $500 million investment to preserve the environment, improve farmer profitability, and increase farmers’ well-being.

The company’s grand announcement coincided with the annual National Cocoa and Chocolate Days in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Hershey says a long-term collaboration between Hershey, Sucden, and the nine cooperatives will provide farmers with stability and better solve on-the-farm challenges.

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“Improving farmer incomes requires a holistic approach and collaboration across public and private sectors,” said Tricia Brannigan, Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer for Hershey. “Collaboration happens best when you have trust. Trust is built over time through strong, long-lasting relationships.”

This agreement is the latest in a series of significant investments made by Hershey to support cocoa farming communities. Last year, Hershey launched its $40 million Income Accelerator program and is also funding the construction of primary schools in farming communities.

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