PMA response to Peru disaster

TK: A letter from Nancy Tucker follows. It speaks to the Bruce McEvoy's earlier letter asking how the industry could best deliver aid to Peru's earthquake victims. Thank you, Nancy, for a thoughtful and helpful response.


Dear Bruce, Jim, and Tom;

It has been great to see the concern that you all have voiced regarding the impact of the earthquake on the industry and people of Peru. Our members in that country have told us that while their business operations are very functional, there is a huge need for support to help thousands of farm workers and others rebuild their homes and their lives.

We asked our members and colleagues in Peru how we might best support the rebuilding efforts in the country. We learned that many of the commodity groups (asparagus, citrus, etc.) are engaged in valiant efforts to help their workers. However, many of our contacts recommended that we support an organization called Caritas (more information at (http://www.caritas.org/) that is very engaged in responding to this disaster. Information on their efforts can be found here: http://www.caritas.org/jumpNews.asp?idLang=ENG%26idChannel=3%26idUser=0%26idNews=5234

PMA has a long tradition of supporting our members in times of special humanitarian need – whether it be from hurricanes, earthquakes, droughts, freezes, etc. - both in the U.S. and abroad. PMA is donating $1000 to Caritas for relief efforts in Peru and offers the information about this organization for other companies to consider if they wish to support these efforts.

All my best,

Nancy


Nancy J. Tucker, CAE
Vice President, Global Business Development
Produce Marketing Association
1500 Casho Mill Rd.
P.O. Box 6036
Newark, DE 19714-6036
USA
Tel +1-302-738-7100 ext. 3005