Genesis Energy is helping the humanitarian aid for the survivors of the Christchurch earthquake by contributing $500,000 to the Red Cross Appeal for the city.

Genesis Energy Chief Executive, Albert Brantley, said the company wanted to help immediately as it has several thousand customers in the city, and a number of staff living or working around Christchurch.

Mr Brantley, a Canterbury resident himself, said as a national company, Genesis Energy has many connections with Christchurch and this latest disaster to hit the city had had a profound impact on Genesis Energy and his staff.

“Many of our staff have family in the district. Our Chairman, Dame Jenny Shipley is a Cantabrian and has many personal connections with the people of the city. We are all touched by this event and feel connected to this tragedy and the suffering of the people of Christchurch,” he said.

Dame Jenny Shipley, speaking on behalf of herself, the Directors and staff of Genesis Energy, expressed her condolences for those who had lost loved ones or colleagues.

“This has been a tragic and difficult time for all our friends, family and colleagues in Christchurch. But I know the people of Christchurch and I know their resilience. I am sure they will rise to the challenge of rebuilding the city and their lives,” Dame Jenny said.

Genesis Energy is providing an immediate donation to Red Cross and has also set aside a significant amount to assist in the rebuilding of community facilities in Canterbury in the coming months.

ENDS

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