Companies are extending their aid contributions, as some communities return to find what’s left of fire ravaged towns and blazes continue to burn across Australia.
Coca-Cola Amatil, who last week announced they were donating 250,000 beverages to fire affected communities and fire fighting services, have furthered their commitment to aid for the ongoing crisis, in conjunction with The Coca-Cola Foundation and Coca-Cola Australia.
CCF will donate $1 million to The Salvation Army’s disaster relief and CCA will donate $250,000 to the NSW RFS, CFA Victora and South Australian Country Fire Service Foundation, in addition to funds from matched employee donations, and support to small business customers.
Retailers are also digging deep. After launching a customer donation drive in November in more than 800 stores, Coles announced they will donate $2 for every dollar raised for the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund. Customers raised $522,010, bringing the total to $1.5 million. Coles had previously donated $3 million in gift cards to rural fire brigades.
And Woolworths this week pledged $250,000 to animal rescue and welfare organisations in response to the devastating impact on wildlife. Woolworths Group, along with their customers, have donated more than $3.7 million in financial aid, gift cards, household goods and clothing and essential items.