Major Automaker Donating $1.1 Million to Support Aid Initiatives
Refugees from war-torn countries such as Syria are struggling to find sanctuary throughout Europe. As many have sought refuge in Germany, one of their biggest car companies hopes to lead by example with a generous donation of €1 million (approximately $1.1) in aid for refugee organizations near their factories in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm, Brussels, and Gyor. The European Union is struggling to find homes for everyone seeking asylum as the unprecedented influx of migrants across Europe continues. Though it will by no means solve the plight of many permanently, as Germany alone is expected to take in approximately 800,000 refugees before the end of 2015 (that’s barely over $1 per person), it’s one way the automaker has made an effort to lend a hand without getting bogged down in political bureaucracy.
“We have been shocked by the great suffering of the refugees in Europe,” says Rupert Stadler, chairman of the board of management of AUDI AG. “People at our doorsteps are in need — and we therefore want to offer help quickly and avoid red tape.” Though Ford and GM donate to worthy immigrant and community based causes in the US, this massive wave permeating throughout Europe demands swift and immediate action.
“We must not and we will not stand passively by when it comes to helping our fellow human beings in this desperate situation. We Audi employees are always there to help when it’s important – and it’s more important now than ever before,” says Audi General Works Council Chairman, Peter Mosch, in a statement announcing the donation.
The Audi Volunteers program allows the company’s staff a chance to suggest regional projects that could be implemented along with charity organizations. Audi is also exploring the possibility of offering employment opportunities to refugees.
More from Audi’s Press Release, here.