SWITZERLAND – Nestlé has announced a partnership with the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in providing immediate help to strengthen health care systems during the COVID-19 crisis.

The IFRC, which provides first aid, emergency response and epidemic control has been Nestlé’s global partner of Nestlé. Both institutions share common roots in Switzerland and are present in almost every country in the world.

Initially, Nestlé and IFRC will work together in four ways to provide urgent help for emergency services and caregivers and strengthen healthcare systems.

The institutions will donate food, medical nutrition products and bottled water to bring relief to those most affected by the pandemic while at the same time deploying Nestlé’s available logistics capacities to support the needs of the IFRC in various countries.

In addition, Nestle will donate CHF10 million (US$10.31m) for immediate deployment in countries where it is most needed.

As part of the partnership, the company added it will match 1:1 any donations to the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies or Federation made by its employees.

Mark Schneider, CEO of Nestlé, said: “Now is the time to demonstrate the values of the Nestlé family. I am deeply impressed and humbled by what our team has accomplished in order to support individuals and communities affected by this crisis.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is a global problem and consequently we are offering help on the ground everywhere, drawing on our extensive presence and experience in 187 countries.

“In addition, we give our full support to those who are fighting tirelessly against the spread of the virus, every day. This is where our trusted and longstanding partnership with the IFRC comes in.

“We applaud the relentless efforts of the millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and admire their determination to make a difference on the ground.”

Nestlé’s partnership with IFRC forms part of the food and beverage firm’s continuous efforts in providing local relief in the communities around the globe where the company operates.

The company has also provided support to charities, medical institutions and other organizations in the frontline of the fight against the pandemic.

These include collaborations with physicians to develop new tailored COVID-19 medical nutrition and supplement treatment protocols as well as doantions to food banks and food delivery organizations to support people in need.

“We are providing prompt and pragmatic support to our business partners, for example in our supply chains, who are affected by this crisis. Our efforts are continuing – and stepping up – around the world,” the company said in a statement.