It's through the generosity of International Paper employees that the Employee Relief Fund (ERF) exists. The fund was established to assist our fellow colleagues and communities impacted by natural disaster, personal tragedy or other circumstances beyond their control. The ERF is also a way for our company and employees to pool our resources in response to disasters around the world.
In 2010, donations to the ERF totaled just over $380,000 - $150,000 from our employees and $230,000 from International Paper. A heart-felt thanks to our committee and to everyone who donated to the ERF in 2010. These donations impacted IP team members along with thousands of our neighbors in need around the globe.
Last year was an active year for the ERF. In 2010, 26 International Paper employees faced significant losses from house fires, flooding, tornadoes and earthquakes. Grants totaling $45,000 were awarded to our fellow employees to assist with food, shelter and clothing.
IP employees stepped up early in the year following the January 2010 earthquake that rocked Haiti. With the company's initial donation of $50,000 plus the dollar-for-dollar match on more than $134,000 in employee gifts, International Paper donations for Haiti relief topped $300,000. These gifts provided immediate care and emergency shelter along with clean water for the victims in Haiti.
Just 60 days later, a magnitude-8 earthquake struck Graneros, Chile, where International Paper has a container plant and 180 employees. The company and employees rallied again, raising nearly $60,000 through the ERF. These funds provided grants to 12 International Paper employees who suffered significant property loss.
The ERF is managed by a dedicated committee of employee volunteers. A warm thanks to Alfonso Duran, Angie Lewis, Barbara Wilson, Jane Kuhl, Kerri Edwards, Martha Williams, Robert Allen and Sandra Hause, who stand ready to respond when an employee's disaster application is received. The team discusses each application, determines eligibility and ensures grants are quickly processed to assist employees with their immediate needs.
International Paper employees continue to embody the spirit of giving through the generosity exhibited during times of crisis. We should take pride in knowing that we are making a significant impact on our colleagues and neighbors around the world.
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