United Airlines is mobilizing to assist people impacted by the recent events in Rio Grande do Sul, which is facing one of the worst floods in the last 80 years. The American company will contribute $50,000 (approximately R$256,000) to GlobalGiving, an international NGO that supports other local non-profit organizations, and to Airlink, a global humanitarian entity that helps communities in crisis. Employees and customers will also be able to contribute.
The GlobalGiving will allocate the donated amount to trusted Brazilian community organizations that are part of its partner network, such as:
Foco Empreendedor, based in Santa Cruz do Sul, a social service agency with initiatives focused on health, hygiene, personal protection, environmental education, and emotional support in its community.
APUSA, based in Porto Alegre, which focuses on education and livelihoods, with ongoing post-flood recovery programs, school reconstruction, and strengthening continuous education and basic services in affected communities.
Fundo Casa Socioambiental, based in São Paulo, which has a strong network of smaller organizations in the region it supports, including environmental and indigenous organizations and communities. Fundo Casa has a long history of coordinating smaller organizations in vulnerable communities in areas affected by recurring floods.
Instituto do Câncer Infantil, an organization with over 30 years of experience in caring for children with cancer and their families throughout the state of Rio Grande do Sul. It has been an approved partner in the network since 2012 and works to assess needs and ensure ongoing support for children and families affected in flood impact zones.
When employees and customers donate money to any of the humanitarian organizations (here’s the link: https://donate.mileageplus.com/brazil-flooding-relief), United will add up to $25,000 for each entity. The company will also donate up to 1 million miles to Airlink, which accepts contributions in miles and cash.
Airlink is a global humanitarian organization that helps communities in crisis. They provide transportation and logistical support for material aid and response teams provided by assessed partner NGOs. Airlink will support international partner NGOs authorized by the government to operate directly in Brazil, which assist recognized local NGOs and humanitarian aid partners, or provide support for government distribution. Airlink works to meet immediate needs, such as disaster assessment, medical assistance, shelter support, and provision of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene.