Asda has donated £100,000 to humanitarian aid organisation, UNICEF to support its efforts in helping victims of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.
The contribution will fund emergency shelter supplies, water sanitation and hygiene kits for those in need.
The Big 4 grocer’s clothing and homeware business, George has been in close contact with suppliers in the region who are providing shelter and clothing to families who have lost their homes, with its office in Turkey is also offering donations of warm clothing.
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“Our thoughts are with the people of Turkey and Syria as they come to terms with these terrible events,” Asda co-owner Mohin Issa said.
“We stand with our fellow retailers and businesses in offering our support to the humanitarian effort and are proud to work with UNICEF as they provide critical aid on the ground. I also applaud our colleagues and supply partners in Turkey, who are opening their factories to provide shelter at this terrible time.”
UNICEF chief executive, Jon Sparkes said: “In the wake of the recent and devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, we are thankful for Partners like Asda. These are the most powerful earthquakes to hit the region in almost 100 years and came at the worst possible time for vulnerable children and their families.”
He added that both UNICEF and Asda are commited to ensuring that those affected “receive urgent support”, with access to emergency supplies.
“Children face extra risks to their health without supplies of food and clean water, and this donation will support UNICEF’s work around the clock to protect the health and welfare of children and their families.”
This comes following pledges from supermarket giants Tesco, Iceland and Marks and Spencers to donate a total of £200,000 to The Sun’s Earthquake Appeal earlier this week.
Co-op is also set to donate £100,000 to the Disasters Emergency Committee to help kickstart its support of the appeal.
