United Airlines is giving a huge donation towards relief efforts in the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan.
On Monday, November 11, the airline announced that it was partnering with AmeriCares, American Red Cross and Operation USA in their efforts to provide aid to those affected by Typhoon Haiyan. The airline said it would donate up to $50,000 to match donations to partner organizations from United customers and employees.
United also agreed to provide a one-time mileage bonus to MileagePlus members who donate and agreed to give up to five million miles under this bonus. MileagePlus members who give between $50-99 receive 250 bonus miles, those who contribute $100-249 receive 500 bonus miles, and members who donate more than $250 receive 1,000 miles.
"Our hearts go out to the people in the Philippines as they recover from this devastation," said Mark Anderson, United's Senior Vice President of Corporate and Government Affairs. "In difficult times like these, our employees and customers always show their generosity, and we're proud to partner with AmeriCares, American Red Cross and Operation USA to make sure that generosity can directly support vital humanitarian relief needed in the Philippines."
By Thursday, the airline said it was able to raise $850,000 in donations through employees and customers. They money will go towards AmeriCares, American Red Cross and Operation USA as they try to help those in the Philippines.
The airline received an overwhelming response and raised it donation match to a total of $100,000 from the initial $50,000 total match offered.
"We thank all of the United employees and customers who have once again shown their kindness and compassion with this outpouring of support for the recovery efforts in the Philippines," Anderson said. "These organizations are doing such important work, and we will continue to help raise funds for their efforts."
The airline is continuing to raise money and offer the bonus miles to MileagePlus members. For more information and to make a donation, customers and employees may visit the company's fundraising page at www.crowdrise.com/unitedrelief.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader