From Slurpee® Drinks to Community Connection: 30 Years of Operation Chill by 7-Eleven
Have you heard of Operation Chill®? It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact.
Each summer, 7-Eleven teams up with law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and Canada to transform small acts of kindness into meaningful community moments. The good deed doesn’t have to be anything big—picking up litter, helping a neighbor or wearing a bike helmet can all count.
The reward? A cool Slurpee® drink and a moment of recognition that sticks.
Through the Operation Chill program, law enforcement officers hand out free Slurpee drink coupons to kids “caught” doing something good.
What is Operation Chill?
Launched in Philadelphia in 1995, Operation Chill has been 7-Eleven's long standing community outreach program for 30 years. Its goal is simple: to build trust between young people and law enforcement through everyday positive interactions.
"It's designed to encourage positive relationships between police and youth in the communities where we operate stores," explains Erick Robinson, Manager of Community Impact Programs at 7-Eleven. "It helps law enforcement agencies build connections with youth by recognizing good behavior."
These small interactions create lasting outcomes—respect, trust, and stronger neighborhoods.
Voices from the Store Support Center
"At 7-Eleven, we believe in fostering relationships that help create safer, stronger communities. It’s inspiring to see officers connect with the people they serve through Operation Chill," says Erick.
Slurpee drinks may be fun treats, but within this program, they stand for something bigger: a simple, genuine way to encourage kindness.
Since 2024, 7-Eleven and its Franchisee Owners have expanded their support by providing food, water and Operation Chill coupons during National Night Out, along with interactive events at local gatherings.
National Night Out is an annual campaign that encourages communities to build connections with their local law enforcement.
This type of collaboration shows the real power of what happens when businesses and public services come together to support their communities.
Erick shared that his greatest joy is opening emails from officers who thank them. "Sometimes, they include photos of smiling kids holding their coupons. That's when I know the program is truly making a difference."
30 Years, 24 Million Smiles
"The response from employees and stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive," Erick adds. "We receive more requests from law enforcement agencies every year."
Over the last three decades, Operation Chill has distributed more than 24 million free Slurpee drink coupons.
In 2024 alone, more than 550,000 coupons were distributed through over 1,300 police departments across North America. And that number continues to grow—this year, 7-Eleven will distribute nearly 640,000 coupons to local agencies so officers can recognize and reward positive behavior in their communities.
"Connections happen in our stores every day," Erick expresses. "My hope is that Operation Chill continues to grow and helps both officers and stores build stronger relationships with their neighbors."
Why It Matters
Operation Chill reminds us that even the smallest actions can make a difference.
It shows kids that their efforts are seen.
It gives officers a genuine way to connect.
And it proves that sometimes, a free Slurpee drink is more than just a beverage. It's a gesture of kindness, community, and trust.
