Transport giant helps earthquake victims

FedEx Express, the world’s largest express transportation company, is using its network to bring international humanitarian relief to those affected by the earthquakes that have devastated Turkey and Syria.

So far, the company has committed more than US$1 000 000 (around R18.45 million) of in-kind shipping toward relief efforts. This includes the delivery of approximately 230 metric tonnes of critical aid from the Dubai World Central Airport (the planned location of the new FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa hub) to Istanbul via five FedEx MD-11 flights. These charters delivered relief supplies including tents, blankets, baby items, household supplies, and hygiene kits from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

“Our hearts go out to those affected by the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria,” says Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa, FedEx Express. “During times of need, we are committed to using the unique capabilities of our network to deliver humanitarian aid to communities safely and promptly. We see this as our responsibility and hope that the support we provide will contribute to the recovery and rebuilding of communities and bring relief to those whose lives have been affected.”

To date, FedEx has also been able to help other non-profit organisations and governments respond during this crisis by utilising its global network and logistics expertise. 

• FedEx donated US$100 000 to the Red Cross on 8 February to aid recovery efforts in Turkish and Syrian communities. The donation is providing support and aid, such as distributing essentials like first aid, food, water, and blankets; setting up temporary shelters; and providing psychological support and medical aid.
• On February 8, FedEx delivered critical humanitarian supplies from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport to Malataya, Turkey, on behalf of the Istanbul Governorship and local municipality, including food supplies from Umursan Un Ltd. and clothing donated by local residents.
• During the week of February 13, FedEx provided shipping support for Canadian disaster-relief organisation GlobalMedic, including the delivery of AquaResponse3 Water Purification Units to feeding centres in the impacted area of Turkey. 
• FedEx worked with US-based World Central Kitchen to ship aid from Madrid, Spain to Adana, Turkey. The flights included a deployable kitchen unit, kitchen supplies, and operations kits.

FedEx continues to provide relief to regions impacted by natural disasters. FedEx relief moved for IFRC, GlobalMedic, and World Central Kitchen was a part of the company’s FedEx Cares “Delivering for Good” initiative, in which FedEx lends its global network and unparalleled logistics expertise to organisations with mission-critical needs, as well as helping communities before, during, and after crises.