This distribution is a part of Coca-Cola's commitment of Tk 11.5 crore to support the government’s ongoing efforts against Covid-19, according to a press release.
The four-day relief distribution program which commenced shortly before the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, will continue till May 23 to cover major COVID-19 outbreak hotspots in the country, including Dhaka, Gazipur, Mymensingh and Cumilla.
The relief program started in Dhaka today where 1,000 families consisting of 4,000 beneficiaries have been supported.
Households were provided with a month’s food packages, ‘dignity kits’ for women and adolescent girls along with personal hygiene material such as facial masks, soaps, and detergent, to meet their immediate needs and help them get through the most difficult times.
Member of Parliament of Dhaka 16 constituency Elias Uddin Mollah was the chief guest of the first day’s distribution program where Councilor of ward 6 of DNCC Taijul Islam Chowdhury Bappi was present as special guest.
Elias Uddin Mollah said: “During this time of pandemic, one act of kindness sparks off another act of generosity. I encourage all other entities to come forward and join hands in this humanitarian war against Covid-19.”
Deputy Country Director – Program of CARE Bangladesh Prabodh Devkota said: “Currently, CARE Bangladesh is mobilizing our response efforts in more than 27 districts in coordination with our partners in different districts. We have been able to reach out to 1,137,162 people as of April. Our efforts are continuing and we are very closely collaborating with the government efforts”.
Managing Director of Coca-Cola Bangladesh Ajay Bathija said: “Covid-19 has impacted the world including Bangladesh in an unprecedented manner. We are committed to helping our communities in Bangladesh and making a difference wherever and however we can.”
As part of the relief program, Coca-Cola Bangladesh will also ensure immediate support to the country’s health infrastructure, including contribution towards personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N-95 face masks, hand sanitizers, disposable gloves and other support for front line doctors and nurses who are tending to COVID-19 patients.
The beverage company is also committed to catering to the hydration needs of doctors, nurses, law enforcers, and other front line workers through beverage distribution.
All these initiatives are part of Coca-Cola Bangladesh’s larger commitment to combat Covid-19. The relief program initiated by Coca-Cola aims at benefitting and positively impacting over 50 lakh lives across the country.