H-E-B officials on Aug. 14 said the company is celebrating a recent $3 million gift to the San Antonio Zoo by sponsoring free admission and discounted admission for eligible zoo visitors through August.

According to a news release, H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust have partnered to make donations of $2 million and $1 million, respectively.

These gifts will support the zoo’s Generation Zoo master plan, whose first phase calls for a new entrance and plaza, the return of gorillas with an enhanced habitat, and a 500-person capacity event center.

The release states, through H-E-B's sponsorship, educators will receive free admission and discounted admission for up to four guests in August. Teachers must show their school IDs to receive the free admission and discounted ticket price.

H-E-B also is sponsoring discounted rates during H-E-B Community Days, which began Aug. 20 and continue through Aug. 27. On these days, guests may buy zoo tickets for $8. Additionally, H-E-B is providing discounts and other opportunities at the zoo for employees.

The release states the Generation Zoo plan will support a redesigned front zoo entrance with the H-E-B Plaza, which will feature papel picado decorations, murals by local artists, a fountain, an overhead trail system for lemurs, and more. H-E-B Plaza is under construction and set to open in November.

Winell Herron—H-E-B’s group vice president of public affairs, diversity and environmental affairs—said her company is excited to be a part of the zoo’s improvement efforts.

"We're proud our gift will support the zoo's vision to expand conservation and education opportunities while creating beautiful spaces that will continue to welcome families for generations to come,” Herron said in a statement.

Zoo President and CEO Tim Morrow said H-E-B’s gift will enable the zoo to continue to grow and improve while creating inviting and accessible spaces for visitors and community partners.

“With H-E-B's unwavering support, the zoo will become an even more captivating and educational destination for families, children and nature enthusiasts. We extend our deepest gratitude to H-E-B for their commitment to conservation and their dedication to improving the well-being of our local community,” Morrow said in a statement.