The Hershey Company to Present the Prestigious Vision Award to International Singer and Actress, Lucero, at the 26th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards

The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) will present the Vision Award to international singer and actress, Lucero, at the 26^th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards (HHAs) on September 5, 2013 at The John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Having sold more than 27 million albums and starred in nine top-rated soap operas, Lucero is one of the most recognized performers in Latin America. Throughout her 33-year performance career, she has been honored with hundreds of international awards. In 2006, she was the first Latin actress to win an EMMY for her success in the U.S. Hispanic soap opera “Alborada.”

At this year’s ceremony, The Hershey Company will present Lucero with the prestigious Vision Award. The award recognizes Lucero’s contributions as a global philanthropist, supporting children through one of Latin America’s most significant charities, “Teleton Mexico.” For 15 years she has hosted the telethon and served as the organization’s official ambassador. Each year, the telethon raises millions of dollars for children with disabilities. The organization’s mission is to provide education about disabilities and send a strong message of respect and equality.

“It’s an honor to receive the Vision Award from Hershey, a company that shares my dedication to children in need,” said Lucero. “Every child deserves the chance to lead a happy, productive life and it’s wonderful that Hershey recognizes and celebrates my belief in the power of helping children.”

Lucero began her career at age 10 as a pop performer receiving support and encouragement from mentors throughout her career. “We applaud Lucero’s outstanding career and her passionate support of children in Latin America,” said Bert Alfonso, President, International at The Hershey Company. “Hershey is dedicated to the Latino community and children’s education worldwide. We share and celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s mission to identify, inspire, prepare and position Latino leaders in the classroom, community and workforce.”

For more than 100 years, The Hershey Company has been a leader in making a positive difference in the community. The company’s commitment is exemplified by the Milton Hershey School which was founded in 1909 by Milton S. Hershey and serves children in financial and social need by providing them quality education, housing, and medical care—all at no cost to students. Today, approximately 1,800 boys and girls of diverse backgrounds are served by the School. Milton Hershey School is funded by a trust administered by the Hershey Trust Company, the largest shareholder of The Hershey Company, making the students of Milton Hershey School direct beneficiaries of The Hershey Company’s success.

The Hershey Company is a Medallion Sponsor of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, an organization that honors notable Latinos who have distinguished themselves in various fields and made a positive difference in the U.S. and globally. The Hispanic Heritage Foundation Awards are considered the highest honor “for Latinos by Latinos.” The annual awards ceremony features remarkable Latino leaders during a dynamic celebration of Hispanic excellence, accomplishments and promise.

“We are proud to present the Vision Award to Lucero who embodies the spirit of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s mission and work,” added Alfonso.

To learn more about The Hershey Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts please visit: http://www.thehersheycompany.com/social-responsibility.aspx

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) is the largest producer of quality chocolate in North America and a global leader in chocolate and sugar confectionery. Headquartered in Hershey, Pa., The Hershey Company has operations throughout the world and approximately 14,000 employees.

With revenues of more than $6.6 billion, Hershey offers confectionery products under more than 80 brand names, including such iconic brands as Hershey’s, Reese’s, Hershey’s

Kisses, Hershey’s

Bliss, Hershey’s Special Dark, Kit Kat, Twizzlers, Jolly Rancher and Ice Breakers. The company is focused on growing its presence in key international markets such as China, Mexico and Brazil while continuing to build its competitive advantage in the United States and Canada.