Amway Answers Call For Much-Needed Supplies

Amway Answers Call For Much-Needed Supplies

The New Zealand arm of the world's largest organisation of independent business owners has answered a call for much-needed disinfectant and cleaning products in tsunami-ravaged areas of Indonesia where nearly 400,000 people are living in temporary shelters and camps.

Amway New Zealand has joined with its Australian counterpart in supplying over $100,000 in cash and product to the relief effort - including disinfectant which the Save The Children has described as crucial to reduce the risk of infection in the country.

The company has also launched a fundraising drive among its staff and more than 115,000 independent business owners in New Zealand and Australia to contribute to the cause, and expects donations to significantly boost the initial contribution already made.

Executive Director of Save The Children New Zealand, Mr John Bowis, said the disinfectant - together with Amway soaps and shampoos and insecticides are in great demand in the affected region.

"With much initial recovery work done, it is critical now that everything possible is aimed at reducing the threat of widespread infection and disease.

"These donated products will not only be greatly appreciated, but will be very important in the continuing effort to stop disease spreading."

The New Zealand effort is part of a world-wide "One by One programme for children" being undertaken by Amway's US-based parent company, Alticor which has already pledged a total of $US250,000 to various charities involved in the relief effort including Save the Children, the Red Cross and International Aid.

Amway's independent business owners throughout the world, and in particular from the affected countries of Indonesia, India, Thailand and Sir Lanka, are dipping into their own pockets to donate tens of thousands of dollars in cash, clothing and other goods to the cause.

Michial Coldwell, General Manager, Amway Australia and New Zealand says the nature of Amway's business means a tragedy of this magnitude greatly affects many people involved with the company.

"We are encouraging our staff to give generously at this time and hope that we can do our part to ease the suffering of those affected by the disaster," he says.

© Scoop Media