ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Coca-Cola system today committed more than $1 million USD toward relief efforts in eastern Turkey, after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the area Sunday. The Coca-Cola Foundation will donate $1 million (US) dollars to the Turkish Red Crescent Society for immediate relief as well as the restoration of elementary schools impacted in Erciş and Van, which were destroyed by the earthquake.
In addition, Coca-Cola Içecek, the Company’s bottling partner in Turkey, has shipped several tractor-trailers of bottled water to the Turkish Red Crescent Society from its nearest facility for distribution in those areas with the greatest need. Employees across the region have also initiated a campaign to send cash contributions to help support the aid work of the Red Crescent in the Van area.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” said Muhtar Kent, Chairman and CEO, The Coca-Cola Company. “We would like to express our condolences and sympathies to the families of those who lost loved ones and wish quick recovery to those injured. We’re working at the local level with our system to ensure the immediate needs of those impacted are met.”
The Coca-Cola system will continue to monitor and provide relief support and aid to the people in the region as the situation develops.
About The Coca-Cola Foundation
The Coca-Cola Foundation has contributed more than $451 million in support of sustainable community initiatives worldwide. For more information about The Coca-Cola Foundation, please go to http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/citizenship/foundation_coke.html.
About The Coca-Cola Company
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, the world's most valuable brand, the Company's portfolio features 15 billion dollar brands including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply and Georgia. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of 1.7 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, support active, healthy living, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our website at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.