US airlines work with American Red Cross & relief agencies in wake of hurricane Matthew
Hurricane Matthew devastated thousands of miles of coastline from Florida to the Carolinas this past week, with most flights grounded during the storm. While government and UN officials estimate that some 350,000 people in the country need help, the Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal for $6.9m to assist with aid.
United Airlines and American Airlines are partnering with the American Red Cross and other organizations to help support families and individuals affected by Hurricane Matthew. United Airlines will provide up to five million bonus miles to MileagePlus customers who donate to these organizations through the online donations platform, CrowdRise. In addition, United will give up to a total of $100,000 to match donations to these organizations.
American Airlines has partnered with the Red Cross for many years and is part of a select group of leading corporations that provide the highest level of support to American Red Cross preparedness and relief efforts. Additionally, Delta Air Lines, Sprint, Jet Blue, Frontier and Southwest Airlines are offering customers the opportunity to rebook flights at no cost among other efforts.
American Airlines has donated more than 20m miles and raised more than $200,000 for their relief efforts so far this year. American is also one of its annual disaster giving program members which enables the Red Cross to pre-position supplies, secure shelters, maintain vehicles and train volunteers nationwide prior to a natural disaster or emergency.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, the Red Cross has welcomed more than 25,000 people to its shelters along the east coast of the U.S. and they expect that number to more than double.
"The thoughts of our entire United family are with the families and individuals affected by this devastating storm," said Brett Hart, United's executive vice president and general counsel. "Our customers and employees have shown their generosity and eagerness to help time and time again in disasters such as Hurricane Matthew. It is our hope that partnering with these organizations will help provide relief to those who need it most."