Following the recent devastating earthquake that struck Haiti, causing extensive destruction and loss of life, imaging companies from across all sectors are beginning to mobilize to contribute to relief efforts. The earthquake is reported to have been the worst to hit Haiti in 200 years, and the United Nations estimates that tens of thousands of people may have been killed.
The Hewlett-Packard Company Foundation announced it has committed $500,000 to the American Red Cross International Response Fund to support relief efforts in Haiti. The foundation also committed up to $250,000 to match eligible contributions by employees of HP in support of the earthquake relief efforts. The funds committed by the HP Company Foundation will, through the American Red Cross, go toward supporting short-term relief as well as helping the long-term reconstruction work needed to rebuild the country.
The Canon Group, including Canon Inc., Canon USA and Canon Latin America, have pledged approximately 20 million yen ($220,000) to the Haiti relief and recovery efforts. The Canon Group is contributing to the relief efforts for victims of the earthquake through donations to Red Cross Organizations, which will help to provide the people of Haiti with necessary supplies and services including food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support.
“The Canon Group would like to express its condolences to the people of Haiti and our thoughts go out to all of the people that have been affected by this inconceivable natural disaster,” said Joe Adachi, president and CEO, Canon USA. “A tragedy of this magnitude requires support from the global community, and it is our hope that our contribution, along with all of the aid coming in from around the world, will help the people of Haiti begin the rebuilding and healing process.”
Panasonic Corporation also announced that it would donate 10 million yen (around $110,000) to the effort to aid victims and support the recovery of areas affected by the earthquake that struck the Haiti region on January 12. The company stated, “Panasonic and its employees feel deep condolences for victims of the earthquake and sincerely hope for swift recovery of the people and areas in Haiti affected by the disaster.”
Best Buy reported it has donated $200,000 in order to aid Haiti relief efforts. The donation will be split 50/50 between the International Federation of the Red Cross and the Mercy Corps. The Red Cross donation will be directed to immediate relief, while the Mercy Corps money will go to “both immediate and long-term technology and infrastructure rebuilding.” Employees are also encouraged to volunteer or make personal donations through the Red Cross.
Print | posted @ Monday, January 18, 2010 12:50 PM