Tesco’s Devon stores have saluted the British Red Cross, with the supermarket chain donating £250,000 this month to the charity’s Disaster Fund.
This takes the total Tesco has given to the British Red Cross to £27million across 27 years of the successful partnership.
Among the crucial Devon support provided recently was when Tesco’s Crediton store helped support the British Red Cross Team and the Plymouth community, following reports of an unexploded World War Two bomb in February this year.
Since its inception, Tesco’s collaboration with the charity has focused on financial and practical support, with corporate donations and funds raised through customer initiatives and employee fundraising going to support humanitarian efforts across the globe while also helping communities in the UK.
Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “Tesco is immensely proud to recognise our enduring partnership with the British Red Cross, spanning nearly three decades, with this donation of £250,000 to the charity’s Disaster Fund.
“Together, we’ve made a significant impact on communities across the UK, including here in Devon, providing vital support during times of crisis, and helping to foster resilience for everyday challenges.
“To have reached such a large a milestone of £27million raised over the course of 27 years signifies the incredible generosity of our customers and colleagues who have consistently backed this vital cause. It is also a testament to the shared values Tesco and the British Red Cross hold, with a deep commitment to supporting and empowering the communities we serve.
“This partnership goes beyond financial contributions. Through the Emergency Protocol agreement, our stores serve as a network of resources, allowing British Red Cross teams to access essential items during emergencies and ensuring they can swiftly respond to local needs.
“We have seen the benefits of such an agreement first-hand in Devon, and through this partnership and the support of our colleagues, whether it’s through fundraising or logistical support, we believe the collaboration has made a real difference to the lives of others here in the UK and abroad. We look forward to continuing our support of the British Red Cross and the vital work they do, in the future.”
The partnership can trace its roots back to a modest first donation of £1,000 from the supermarket chain in 1997, to help support the Princess Diana Landmine campaign, championed by the British Red Cross. Since then, the charity has used funds raised by Tesco to help those in need across the country and beyond.
Liz Alleston, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the British Red Cross, said: “On behalf of the British Red Cross, I would like to thank everyone at Tesco for their generous support over almost three decades. From staff donations to the brilliant round-up at the till activity, the support of Tesco and its customers is making a crucial difference. Thanks to your dedication, an incredible amount of money has been raised which has helped Red Cross teams in the UK and around the world support people in crisis. We are delighted to have Tesco employees and customers by our side as we continue to help those most in need. We could not do this without you. Thank you once again for your kindness and generosity.”
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