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Pfizer to Provide Support to Relief Effort in Asia
Wednesday December 29, 2004
Pfizer to Provide $10 million in Funds to Relief Organizations; Company
to Also Donate an Estimated $25 Million Worth of Medicines and Healthcare
Products
NEW YORK, December 29 - The colleagues of Pfizer express their deepest sympathy
and condolences to all those affected by the earthquake and tsunami that struck
Asia and the east coast of Africa.
Pfizer today announced plans to commit medicines, funds, and logistical support
to the relief effort following this catastrophic disaster. Pfizer will donate
$10 million to local and international relief organizations operating in the
region. These will include the American Red Cross/International Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies, International Rescue Committee, Catholic
Relief Services, CARE, UNICEF, and Save the Children as well as local relief
organizations.
Within hours of the disaster Pfizer colleagues began working with local governments
and relief organizations to assess which of the company’s medicines are
needed. As a result of these assessments, Pfizer will contribute approximately
$25 million worth of the company’s healthcare products which includes
the anti-infective products Zithromax, Zyvox and Diflucan. Pfizer organizations
in Asia have already begun donating Pfizer medicines and discussing logistical
support issues with local health and relief officials.
“Pfizer is responding to this enormous tragedy through the donation
of needed medicines, funds, and logistical support to assist both in the immediate
relief and the longer term management of the disease and health risks,” said
Hank McKinnell, Pfizer chairman and chief executive officer. “In
addition to our financial contribution and product donations, we are ensuring
that Pfizer colleagues with the needed medical and technical skills are available
to assist with the relief effort throughout the affected areas.”
The Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program will match US employee contributions
to non-profit organizations assisting in the relief effort.