In response to the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan, General Mills and the General Mills Foundation announced a commitment of $650,000 to support disaster relief and rebuilding efforts. The $650,000 commitment will be made to the Red Cross International Disaster Response Fund.
Additionally, the General Mills Foundation will match employee and retiree gifts to the American Red Cross up to $100,000.
"We are saddened by the severe damage and lives lost in Japan due to the recent earthquake and tsunami," said Ellen Goldberg Luger, the General Mills Foundation's executive director and vice president in a prepared statement. "Our hearts go out to the people affected by this tragedy, and we hope General Mills' support helps to speed the recovery."
Starbucks Coffee Co. and Starbucks Coffee Japan committed support and funding to the relief effort in partnership with the American Red Cross and Japan Red Cross. The Starbucks Foundation and Starbucks Coffee Japan will contribute ¥100 million (approx. USD$1.2 million) to aid immediate humanitarian and relief efforts.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation following the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan," said Howard Schultz, chairman, president and CEO, Starbucks Coffee Co. "Starbucks 15 year history in Japan has been built on a tradition of bringing together people in communities where we do business. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and many others impacted by this natural disaster."
"We feel a tremendous sense of urgency to respond to the crisis," said John Culver, president, Starbucks Coffee International. "Our hearts go out to people across Japan, including our partners (employees) who have been impacted by this horrible tragedy."
"We want to thank all of our partners (employees) throughout Japan for the support they are providing each other during this very difficult and tragic time," said Yuji Tsunoda, ceo, Starbucks Coffee Japan. "We are committed to providing the necessary resources and support to help our partners as they work through the challenges in the days and weeks ahead."
