Businesses across Australia are banding together to donate money to the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal.
The Red Cross has indicated that it has received pledges of support from over 50,000 people across the country, and millions of dollars have so far been provided by the corporate sector from organisations such as 7-Eleven, Telstra, Commonwealth Bank and National Australia Bank (NAB).
7-Eleven has pledged $100,000 to the appeal, along with encouraging staff and franchisees of 7-Eleven to make a personal donation.
7-Eleven CEO, Warren Wilmot, said the company has a responsibility to give back to the communities in which it operates.
“Victoria is essentially 7-Eleven heartland and as part of local communities across the state we feel it’s important for us to try and assist.”
Telstra has pledged to match dollar for dollar any contributions made by Telstra employees up to a total of $250,000, along with donating an extra $500,000.
Sports organisations have also chipped in with Football Federation Australia pledging $100,000 to the Red Cross along with providing replacement football equipment to schools and clubs.
The big banks such as Commonwealth Bank and NAB have offered their support by setting up a bushfire fund and allowing members to donate. This is in addition to the $1 million already contributed by the Commonwealth Bank to the Victorian Premier’s Bushfire Relief Fund.
Australian Red Cross Chief Executive Officer Robert Tickner has been overwhelmed by the generosity and support given by the Australian public.
“The response from the Australian public has been incredible,'” Mr Tickner said, “but the task ahead is huge so we still need people to donate.”
If you would like to donate to the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal, please visit the Red Cross website www.redcross.org.au
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