FedEx pledges $1m to relief effort in Japan
FedEx has donated $1m in cash and in-kind transportation to support relief efforts in Japan. The earthquake and subsequent tsunami has left at least 9,000 people dead with more than 14,000 people still declared missing.
Entire communities have been destroyed, and certain areas surrounding the Fukushima nuclear plant have been evacuated because of the risks from radiation.
Last week, Japan Post and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) said that 330 post offices have been destroyed or damaged across affected areas.
On Tuesday, FedEx announced it is set to lend transportation and logistics expertise to support “several agencies in their vital relief work following the devastation”.
The company will also provide monetary assistance to organisations assisting the relief efforts.
FedEx will aid The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Heart to Heart International, Direct Relief International, Water Missions International, The United Way Worldwide, World Vision and Project Hope.
This support will allow these agencies to provide emergency and humanitarian relief to the earthquake and tsunami victims, including food, shelter, medical supplies, water purification units, blankets and hygiene kits, the company said in a statement.
Frederick W. Smith, chairman, president and CEO of FedEx Corp, said: “The FedEx team is incredibly saddened by the loss of life and destruction caused by the earthquake in Japan and we extend our deepest sympathy to the Japanese people.
“FedEx will continue to work closely with several humanitarian and disaster relief organisations in coordinating logistics, assessing needs and providing support where we are best able to help in Japan.”
Last week, The UPS Foundation pledged $1m in relief to aid earthquake victims.
The funds will be used for in-kind transportation of emergency supplies, trained humanitarian logistics personnel, and financial support.
UPS said it is “coordinating with its existing relief agency partners, including the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, to determine their needs”.
