Media release

Friday 15 November 2013

Fonterra donation to ChildFund Philippines relief

ChildFund New Zealand has received a donation of $100,000 from Fonterra to support its relief and recovery efforts in the Philippines following the devastating Super Typhoon Haiyan.

Asia Programmes Manager for ChildFund New Zealand Sally Hewlett says the donation made by Fonterra and generous New Zealanders will provide desperately needed food, water, essential hygiene items, and help to establish safe spaces for children.

“We’re very grateful for Fonterra’s generous and swift support and their understanding of the need for urgency. They have also kindly offered their local Philippines staff as volunteers for ChildFund’s relief efforts.”

ChildFund’s initial emergency response is in three of the hardest-hit areas: Ormoc, Roxas and Tacloban.

“ChildFund’s emergency response team were among the first international aid workers to reach the city of Ormoc and are reporting almost total devastation. The chaotic conditions will be frightening for already vulnerable children so we urgently need to set up safe spaces and get aid to them,” says Ms Hewlett.

Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings says the Co-operative is encouraging its farmers and employees to support its contribution with individual donations.

“We have close ties with the Philippines having been in the market for many years with a considerable local workforce.

“Our thoughts are with our Fonterra family in the Philippines and we are confident the funds raised through ChildFund will be used in the best way possible.”

“It’s vital in the face of such disasters that everyone, from individuals to organisations, work together. We applaud Fonterra’s commitment and certainly hope that other businesses will follow suit,” adds Ms Hewlett.

Since 2011 Fonterra has partnered with ChildFund to improve overall development of children under the age of five living in extreme poverty in Asia by supporting integrated early childhood development services with health and education activities, and rehabilitating early childhood centres.

ChildFund, which has worked in the Philippines for nearly 60 years, is coordinating its relief efforts closely with its local partners, other aid agencies and the government.

Donations to ChildFund’s Philippines Emergency Appeal can be made by calling 0800 223 111 or online www.childfund.org.nz.

ENDS

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