In response to the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and neighboring states, Monsanto Company (No. 39 on the Fair360, formerly DiversityInc Top 50 Companies list) announced that it will donate $500,000 to assist with disaster relief efforts in the region.
The American Red Cross and Feeding America, through its partnership with Feeding Texas and other impacted food banks, will each receive $250,000 to assist with critical needs for families affected by the storm. The donations will enable the organizations to help those who have lost homes and businesses, and are in need of food and supplies now and during the rebuilding process.
“We have all been affected by the images and stories that are surfacing in Hurricane Harvey’s wake,” said Brett Begemann, Monsanto’s President and Chief Operating Officer. “Our thoughts are with those who have been touched by this unprecedented storm, especially all the cotton growers. We hope these funds will help provide the necessary assistance and support many will need in the weeks ahead.”
Prior to Hurricane Harvey making landfall, farmers and ranchers in the region worked around the clock to harvest crops, move livestock and equipment. Monsanto employs more than 800 people in Texas and has sites in several communities in the storm’s path, but to date, all employees are safe and facilities were not significantly damaged.
“As an agriculture company, Monsanto is keenly aware of the ripple effect a natural disaster can have on the environment and farmers. The Texas cotton harvest is only about 10 percent complete, and the storm and flooding have caused tremendous damage to cotton in the field and in storage,” Begemann added. “We’ll continue to explore how we might be able to help beyond this immediate-term donation.”
Monsanto is committed to strengthening both farming communities and the communities where employees live and work, and its employees regularly give back to communities through volunteerism.
In addition to the company’s donation, Monsanto is also encouraging employees to donate to the American Red Cross and Feeding Texas/Feeding America. Monsanto will match all employee contributions to the company’s designated Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
