HSBC supports World Vision’s COVID-19 Response

8th April 2020, COLOMBO – HSBC partnered with World Vision to provide dry ration packs to the most vulnerable families affected by the current emergency situation in the country, due to COVID-19.  The project is being carried out as part of World Vision’s new match funding initiative ‘Every rupee you give is doubled’ - where the humanitarian organization will match the contribution. Through their partnership with HSBC, a total of 2,586 families in Kilinochchi, Nuwara Eliya, Polonnaruwa, Puttalam, Chavakachcheri, Chankani, and Delft Island will receive dry ration packs sufficient for two weeks.

One of the biggest and most immediate humanitarian concerns is enabling access to basic food items for rural populations. Even though there are enough stocks available in the country, the most vulnerable families, especially those who depend on daily wages and who are unable to engage in their livelihood due to the prevailing situation, are unable to afford even the basic food items.

World Vision will focus on nearly 40,000 families identified in 30 locations around the country to provide dry ration packs. So far, 9,095 dry ration packs have been distributed in nine locations. World Vision Lanka is carrying out the response through the government authorities at the grassroots level and is inviting everyone to become part of supporting families in need.

“HSBC has been partnering with us since 2015 for development projects as well as in our emergency responses and we greatly appreciate them coming on board to support our current response to COVID-19 emergency,” said Clarence Sutharsan, Director Marketing and Engagement, World Vision Lanka.

“As the leading international bank, we are doing everything possible to support our staff, our customers and the community. As the situation is evolving, we have lined up a range of healthcare and financial relief measures. Through our corporate sustainability initiatives, we are committed to understand the challenges and respond to those most vulnerable segments of the community who are struggling to survive in the prevalent environment. That’s why we are happy to partner with World Vision, who is helping us reach the communities who are very much in need of support,” commented Mark Prothero, CEO HSBC Sri Lanka and Maldives.

World Vision is a development and advocacy organization and works in 34 locations in 15 Districts across Sri Lanka directly impacting nearly 100,000 vulnerable children and their families.