ESPOO, Finland-Nokia Corp. said it will put almost $4 million toward helping India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand rebuild after December’s devastating tsunami.
“During the first crucial days, we channeled our relief efforts into direct cash contributions, product and service donations and extensive employee volunteering,” said Jorma Ollila, the company’s chairman and chief executive officer. “However, with the early-phase response now largely under way, we wanted to set out plans for a more sustainable assistance program in helping people rebuild their lives.”
Nokia said it developed a long-term recovery proposal for funds to be distributed in the affected areas over a five-year period. The funds will support educational initiatives, such as the reconstruction of schools and provision of educational equipment, books, supplies, scholarships and teacher training.
The wireless industry has played a notable role in channeling aid to the affected regions. Companies have donated money and equipment to various areas, and some carriers have conducted text-messaging campaigns to raise money from subscribers.
In related news, The Charitable Recycling Program of PhoneBack Canada has launched a program to help raise funds for tsunami victims.
The Recycle For Relief program is accepting used cellular phones and will make a monetary contribution to The Canadian Red Cross for each phone received.
