Jelly Belly Candy Co. is donating 1 million bags of jelly beans to first responders serving during the COVID-19 pandemic with help from Operation Gratitude.

The donation comes in time for National Jelly Bean Day on April 22. Jelly Belly said it’s hoping something as simple as jelly beans can provide positivity during difficult times. 

“At Jelly Belly Candy Co. we’re so proud of all of the first responders who are stepping up in a big way to take care of those in need and saving lives during this unprecedented time,” said Lisa Rowland Brasher, Jelly Belly president and CEO. “Sending Jelly Belly jelly beans is just a small token of our appreciation that we hope brings a dose of positivity and a reason to smile for those on the front lines. We are grateful to our partner, Operation Gratitude, which is helping to facilitate distribution of the 1 million Jelly Belly small bags to first responders around the country.”

Operation Gratitude is a nonprofit organization dedicated to volunteerism in support of military service members, veterans and first responders. Since 2003, the organization has delivered 2.5 million care packages.