Following the devastating earthquake that struck Pakistan and brought destruction throughout the region, the Coca-Cola system promptly responded by making its capabilities and resources available to support the victims of this disaster.
In areas directly affected by the earthquake, the Coca-Cola Company and the Coca-Cola Foundation have pledged US $2 million in aid – US $1 million to Pakistan’s earthquake relief efforts and US $1 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. In addition, the Coca-Cola Company is helping address the vital need for clean drinking water by donating bottled water and other beverages to the local agencies coordinating the relief efforts.
“The aftermath of the earthquake in Pakistan and Southeast Asia is tragic. As an employer in the region and responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to doing all we can to support the relief efforts,” commented Jasim Wahab, Coca-Cola Middle East Public Affairs and Communications Manager. “Our aid for the victims of natural disasters has always been a priority and an obligation for Coca-Cola across the globe,” he added.
Just last month Coca-Cola donated $5 million to support the relief and rescue efforts in US communities devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Coca-Cola also donated $10 million to international and local relief organizations, following the catastrophic Tsunami that hit Asia in December 2004. The Company’s donations to this region were matched and exceeded by local bottler and employee contributions of bottled water, clothing, food and medical supplies.
The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's best-known brand, the Company markets four of the world's top five soft drink brands, including Coca-Cola Light, Fanta and Sprite. As well as marketing a wide range of other beverages, including diet and light soft drinks, waters, juices and juice drinks, teas, coffees and sports drinks. Through the world's largest distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate exceeding 1 billion servings each day.
