Riverbanks Zoo's Toucan Tuesdays to Benefit Harvest Hope Returns

Riverbank Zoo's Toucan Tuesdays — a partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank — returns this week.

Guests can save on admission and help feed the hungry in the Midlands.

Read the full release below:

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is pleased to announce the return of Toucan Tuesdays—a partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank to help feed hungry families in the Midlands.

Every Tuesday this summer, beginning on June 4, two can visit Riverbanks for the price of one with a donation of two non-perishable food items for Harvest Hope.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with Harvest Hope for such a worthy cause,” said Satch Krantz, president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “Last summer’s drive generated more than 4,200 pounds of food and we hope to greatly exceed that number this year.”

 This is the fourth year for the Toucan Tuesdays promotion. According to Harvest Hope CEO Denise Holland, the outpouring of donations helps immensely in the organization’s mission. “We are extremely grateful to zoo visitors who participate in this program each summer; it is wonderful that a family-based organization like Riverbanks can be so instrumental in providing food and comfort to those in need,” said Holland.

In addition to saving on Zoo admission, guests donating on a Toucan Tuesday will receive hot savings to help stay cool during their visit: $2 ICEE’s, $2 fountain drinks and a 2-for-$20 special on misting fans sold at various locations throughout the park. (Guests will be given a custom wristband to show proof of donation.)

Donation bins will be located at both the Zoo and Garden entrances. The promotion ends on August 27. The offer applies to general admission rates only (purchase one admission and get the second for equal or lesser value free; Explorer wristbands and memberships are not included). For more information, visit www.riverbanks.org.

Visiting on a Toucan Tuesday is also a perfect time to see Riverbanks’ newest zoo baby—a koala joey. The 8-month-old joey fully emerged from its mother’s pouch in late April and is now on exhibit in Koala Knockabout along with mom (Lottie), dad (Jimmie) and big brother (Norris).