In response to the devastating earthquake that hit Sichuan province four days ago, the PepsiCo Foundation has donated $1 million to help those in quake-affected areas.

"In this incredibly difficult time, PepsiCo and our employees stand by the Chinese people and are committed to helping them now and in the future," said Indra Nooyi, chairman and CEO of PepsiCo.

The donation was granted by the China Women's Development Foundation under the All-China Women's Federation.

To help administer the donation, PepsiCo Foundation is working closely with Give2Asia, a US non-profit organization founded by the Asia Society.

"In 2008, we saw the tragic power of an earthquake. But we also saw the power of communities and partners coming together," Nooyi said.

"PepsiCo will work with the government and the All-China Women's Federation to help the Chinese people in this time of need, and in the recovery."

CWDF is working with local Chinese organizations and authorities to provide disaster relief, including medical support and provisions, food, temporary shelter, and post-quake reconstruction. And the federation's mission is to safeguard the rights and interests of women and children during the process.

Zhen Yan, vice-chairman of the women's federation and vice-president of CWDF spoke highly of PepsiCo.

"PepsiCo's donation is the first that the CWDF has received from a multinational company," Zhen said.

"We appreciate PepsiCo's donation immediately after the earthquake and wish to express, on behalf of the women and children there, our sincere gratitude to PepsiCo for its generosity and the caring it has shown to the quake-stricken area."

In addition to the grant, Tingyi Holding Corp, PepsiCo's strategic partner in China, dispatched a convoy of nine vehicles carrying emergency relief, which arrived in the stricken area hours after the quake.

Donations provide through this effort included 5,000 cases of Aquafina bottled water, 3,000 cases of Master Kong instant noodles and 4,000 cases of Master Kong bottled water.

PepsiCo China and Tingyi are working together with the local government and organizations to ensure that support reaches those most in need.

One of the first multinationals to enter China after the reform and opening-up, PepsiCo has been a corporate citizen dedicated to charitable efforts in communities throughout the country for more than 30 years.

PepsiCo recognizes its responsibility and has supported many public and social projects in China, such as the Water Cellar for Mothers, a community program for the children of migrant workers and farmers in rural areas across China.

Meanwhile, PepsiCo is also partnering with CWDF, the women's federation and Give2Asia on a clean water project in rural areas of China.

zhuanti@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/24/2013 page16)