Corporate Aid to Myanmar
The situation in Myanmar is very delicate, and much care should be taken when companies are deciding whether to donate. There is no doubt that this is a major humanitarian crisis, but the Myanmar government continues to erect obstacles that prevent both the U.S. government and U.S.-based NGOs from providing adequate aid.
Before agreeing to provide assistance of any kind, please find a NGO with operations or expertise relevant to this situation and contact the organization directly to ensure they are on the ground and providing aid. Many NGOs are having trouble gaining access to the area; much due diligence is required on the part of donors. BCLC's website, www.uschamber.com/bclc, has a list of humanitarian partners that are currently on the ground or whose members are operating in Myanmar.
U.S. officials, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance, and the UN World Food Programme are working with the Myanmar government to break down the administrative barriers so that adequate aid can be provided. UN officials seem cautiously optimistic that these blockades to international aid will fall in the next few days.
BCLC is in the process of tracking corporate donations. Many companies are waiting for indications from the Myanmar government that it is fully open to international aid. This is a wise decision. However, if your company has decided that it is the right time to give, BCLC would like to include your donation in our aid tracker. Please send information to BCLC@uschamber.com
In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns regarding the situation in Myanmar, call BCLC's Help Desk at 1-888-MY-BIZ-HELP.
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