Earlier this summer, catastrophic floods swept through Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, claiming hundreds of lives, destroying thousands of homes and businesses, and leaving an estimated 8,500,000€ ($10 billion) in property damage in their wake. The flooding affected hundreds of people including PPG employees, many of whom saw cherished items wash away or suffered significant property losses. The floods also impacted multiple PPG sites, including our Automotive OEM and Refinish facilities in Wuppertal and Hilden, Germany; our Architectural Coatings office in Hasselt, Belgium; and communities across the Netherlands.
Employee generosity drives flooding relief efforts in EMEA
In response, PPG and our employees quickly raised and committed financial donations to support local municipalities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in their relief and rebuilding efforts. The funds were generated from PPG's Disaster Relief Support program, which includes direct grants to eligible organizations and a 2:1 employee match in which PPG doubles employees' personal donations.
“The devastating floods caused immense damage and many of those affected are facing massive problems," said Heiko Stuhl, plant manager, Wuppertal and Weingarten. “I am #PPGProud that our community engagement initiative is not just a concept. Our quick response to help those in need shows we are truly committed to acting in the best interest of our communities."
Jochen Kleeman, Refinish market director, Germany, agreed and was especially grateful for employees' support and generosity.
“I've been overwhelmed by the willingness of our employees in Germany to help and donate to relief efforts, especially to those who have been left with nothing," he said. “It is good to know that we're always here for each other."
In addition to monetary donations, PPG relief efforts will include product donations and COLORFUL COMMUNITIES® projects in Germany and Belgium as the communities rebuild. As part of our mission, PPG and the PPG Foundation is committed to protect and beautify our local communities by providing immediate relief and longer-term support to municipalities and nonprofit organizations to help serve those in need. Click here to learn more.
*Above photo credited to Chris Gallagher and the Red Cross