Woolworths’ customers can support flood-affected communities by rounding up their in-store purchases at the checkout.
The money raised will assist The Salvation Army in providing meals at evacuation centres. It will also provide grants and support for the recovery and rebuilding to come.
Woolworths Group CEO Brad Banducci says the retailer’s thoughts are with all its customers, teams and communities that have been impacted by widespread flooding across the eastern seaboard.
“In times of crisis it is critical that we act quickly and work better together to support those most in need,” he says.
“Through our S.T.A.N.D [Support Through Australian Natural Disasters] program, our partners are able to stand-up the moment a natural disaster happens to offer meaningful on-the-ground assistance and support to impacted communities.”
Mr Banducci adds: “Many of our team members are among those whose homes are flooded, and we’ve unfortunately seen more than 20 of our supermarket and BIG W stores forced to close at some point because team members are unable to get to work or the store has faced flooding.
“We recognise how challenging this time is for our customers and we thank them for their patience and support.
“We know the coming days are expected to bring more flooding and the impact will last long after the waters recede. Our teams will continue to stand together with our customers to support impacted communities, as well as provide further support to our charity partners to help those most in need to recover.”
The Salvation Army National Public Relations Secretary Major Bruce Harmer says The Salvation Army personnel are on the ground right now providing thousands of meals for those impacted by floods.
“In addition to meals, our teams are offering emotional support, which is well received by those displaced from their homes,” he says.
“With the support of our major disaster partner Woolworths Group, we can continue to meet the emerging needs of those who continue to be impacted by the devastating floods in south east Queensland and northern NSW.
“We have seen in the past two years, through bushfires, floods, drought and Covid-19, the spirit of generosity shown in times of hardship. We are calling again on the Australians to help us be there for the incredible number of people displaced by the floods.
“Thank you to Woolworths Group teams and their customers for donations and assistance on the ground. We’re honoured to stand with Woolworths in these difficult times for so many Australians in need.”
Customers can also donate their Everyday Rewards dollars in increments of $10. This will be converted to a financial donation to The Salvation Army and any of Woolworths’ other charity partners supporting relief efforts.
In addition, Woolworths Insurance has pledged to donate $10 from every new car, home and pet policy taken out in March to the S.T.A.N.D program. BIG W is also working with Good360 Australia to help match much needed goods to charities and schools in local communities impacted by the floods.