The Skipton Group has responded swiftly to the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Myanmar with a £25,000 donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Myanmar Earthquake Appeal.
The pledge, made within hours of the appeal’s launch, forms part of the group’s annual commitment to contribute 1% of its pre-tax profits to charitable causes.
Skipton Building Society, part of the wider group, has also opened its network of UK branches to members of the public wishing to contribute to the appeal.
In addition to branch donations, individuals can donate by texting SKIPTON to 70676, which triggers a £10 donation. All proceeds will go directly to the DEC appeal, with standard network charges applying. Donations can also be made via the DEC’s phone donation line on 0330 123 0555.
WIDESPREAD DESTRUCTION
The donation comes in the wake of a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that has caused widespread destruction across Myanmar. More than 3,000 people are now confirmed dead, over 4,700 injured, and an estimated 1.2 million displaced.
The disaster has compounded an already critical humanitarian situation, with one third of the country’s population already reliant on aid prior to the quake.
The earthquake has left many communities without access to clean water, shelter, food or medical assistance. Infrastructure has been badly hit, with roads, schools, hospitals and essential utilities severely damaged or destroyed, further isolating affected populations. In many areas, communications and power lines remain down, hampering relief efforts.
URGENT NEED
DEC charities are active on the ground, working to reach remote and inaccessible areas with emergency supplies. The organisation has stressed the urgent need for additional funding to expand its operations and support the most vulnerable.
Michaela Wright, Skipton’s group head of sustainability, said the scale of the disaster had moved the entire organisation to act.
“We’ve all watched on in horror at the unimaginable loss and destruction caused by the devastating earthquake in Myanmar,” she said.
“Across the Skipton Group we want to help with the rescue and relief efforts and so have donated £25,000 to get much needed aid to those people and families who so desperately need help.
“The donations will go towards core relief such as shelter, food, water, sanitation, and education. For anyone wanting to also donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal – simply text using the text code or pop into any UK Skipton Building Society branch to make your donation.”
Further details, including full donation terms and conditions, are available via the DEC website HERE.
