US carrier Delta has confirmed this afternoon that it will help the American Red Cross provide food, shelter and cleanup to those in need, as a result of Hurricane Michael.
The American Red Cross is Delta's longest-standing nonprofit partner, which has allowed the company, its employees and customers to help people in need for more than 75 years. In addition to ADGP funding, employees participate in corporate blood drives throughout the year, making Delta the largest corporate sponsor of American Red Cross blood drives with 11,085 pints in Fiscal Year 2018 (Year End June 30).
"Supporting the American Red Cross allows Delta and our employees and customers to help those who are affected by crisis around the world," said Tad Hutcheson, Delta's Managing Director – Community Engagement. "As a global airline, we are committed to investing in our local communities, lending a helping hand when it's needed the most, and partnering with organizations who are involved with disaster relief year round."
Delta's partnership with the Red Cross facilitates easy employee donations that can be applied to disaster relief. In 2017, Delta solicited employee contributions to relief efforts in the wake of numerous crises, including several major hurricanes, an earthquake in Mexico and unprecedented flooding in Texas.
Customers can also donate directly to the disaster relief of Hurricane Michael at a public Delta microsite to help those in need. Customers are also able to donate to the American Red Cross through SkyWish, the charitable arm of Delta's SkyMiles frequent flyer program. It allows Delta and its SkyMiles members to donate miles to charitable organizations worldwide.
