Farmers Samoa fund reaches $180,000
Media Release - October 5, 2009
Customers at Farmers stores nation-wide donated $90,000 during the weekend to the fund set up by the company to assist those affected by the tsunami in Samoa.
The fund now stands at $180,000 as Farmers is matching each contribution dollar for dollar up to $50 per donation.
Farmers set up the fund last Friday (Oct. 2) and the company plans to keep it open until further notice.
Managing director Rod McDermott says everyone at Farmers appreciates the generosity of store customers.
“The destruction in Samoa has impacted so many people in our community and also many of our own staff have lost close family members. Our thanks go to all who have contributed and to our staff around the country who have helped to raise the profile of the tragic events in the islands.”
Farmers has already air freighted a range of basic life necessities to Samoa. This week more basics such as towels, cookware, mattresses, toiletries and the like will be air freighted and shipped, Mr McDermott says.
“It is truly impressive to see the community and our teams rally together to bring at least some relief to so many people, families and communities that have lost so much.”
Farmers is commencing discussions with several organisation about who the funds should be donated to. Included in these talks are representatives from both the NZ and Samoan Governments.
