Coca-Cola pledges Rs. 43 million for flood relief efforts

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Karachi, August 09, 2010: Coca-Cola has pledged a sum of approximately Rs. 43 million (US $ 500,000.00) as part of the relief efforts for the families that have been badly affected by the recent flood that has devastated major parts of Pakistan. The Company will purchase the relief goods itself and supply to various NGOs and federal and provincial governments’ flood relief organizations. 

The relief goods, that are part of the overall contribution, constitute cooked and dry food items, staples, oils, water and dry milk which will be distributed in the flood affected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhuwa, Punjab and Sindh. A huge proportion of Rs. 43 million will be spent on providing clean drinking water to the affected families all over Punjab. 

Expressing his views, Rizwan U. Khan, Country Manager for Pakistan and Afghanistan, The Coca-Cola Export Corporation said, “The recent floods have been really devastating and the amount of human suffering is immense. We believe that it is our duty as a caring corporate citizen to help our brethren in this hour of need. In this regard, Coca-Cola has joined hands with the federal and provincial governments and various civil society organizations to provide immediate relief in the shortest possible time.” 

The Company has also announced a contribution in terms of supplies for tents and shelter homes, blankets, mattresses etc. besides contributing towards construction / rehabilitation and operation of high schools and shelter homes. This will be carried out immediately with the help of renowned NGOs, federal and provincial relief agencies. 

This is yet another ‘first’ from Coca-Cola, which donated generously during Oct 2005 earthquake and was the first organization to announce $2.0 million aid to the Government of Pakistan. The Company also donated more than Rs. 20 million for the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), who were displaced in huge numbers last year. 

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About The Coca-Cola Company 

The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, the Company's portfolio includes 12 other billion-dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, PowerAde, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our website at www.thecoca-colacompany.com