Responding promptly to the aftermath of the destructive wildfires on Maui, pharmaceutical giant Bayer is stepping up as one of the frontrunners in extending relief efforts. The Germany-based conglomerate has announced a substantial cash donation of $250,000 alongside a supply of vital healthcare products valued at an additional $250,000. Notably, Bayer’s presence on the island spans over 50 years, as highlighted in their statement released on Wednesday.
In a display of solidarity and empathy, the company expresses heartfelt condolences to those affected by the calamity. The recent fire in Lahaina, Hawaii, has tragically become the deadliest blaze in more than a century, according to reports from the U.S. Fire Administration and CNN. With a staggering toll of 110 lives lost as of Wednesday, the disaster has also led to the destruction or damage of around 2,200 structures, with 86% being residential properties, as noted by Governor Josh Green.
“We are grateful to be a part of the Maui community and are fully committed to providing support during this unprecedented time. Our pledge is to help offer not only immediate relief but also to contribute to the sustained recovery and revitalization of Maui.”
– Alan Takemoto, Government Affairs Lead, Bayer Hawaii
Of the $250,000 cash donation, a significant portion, amounting to $150,000, will be directed towards the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong initiative. This program is pivotal in coordinating recovery resources effectively. Meanwhile, $50,000 will be contributed to the Maui Food Bank, and an additional $50,000 is earmarked for future allocation based on emerging needs.
Bayer’s commitment extends beyond financial aid, as they are also providing medical supplies to Direct Relief. This collaboration involves partnering with local healthcare entities in Hawaii to promptly deliver essential medical assistance to those in dire need. Among the donated items are well-known pharmaceuticals like Aspirin, Aleve, Claritin, and an undisclosed antibiotic.
Highlighting the collective empathy, Bayer employees situated in Hawaii’s Maui, Molokai, and Oahu regions have taken a proactive role by contributing over 3,000 pounds of essential supplies including food and water. In a demonstration of support, the pharmaceutical giant is matching employee contributions through its Bayer Fund program. This commitment to aid during times of crisis resonates with the broader trend of pharmaceutical companies stepping up in the face of natural disasters and conflicts. Notably, earlier this year, pharmaceutical companies swiftly responded to the earthquake at the Turkey-Syria border with monetary donations and pledges of essential medicines.
In 2022, the pharmaceutical industry united to support Ukraine following the country’s invasion by Russia. This joint effort saw significant contributions, including Roche’s donation of 150,000 packages of the antibiotic Rocephin, and generous monetary contributions from companies like Sanofi, amounting to millions of euros.
