KNOXVILLE, Tenn.—Pilot Company, its team members and customers have raised a total of $1,153,000 for Save the Children's Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund, according to a news release. The fund provides assistance to families in Ukraine as well as those who have already fled the country since Russia’s invasion.
This amount includes 100% of the donations collected from customers who rounded up their purchase at more than 650 participating U.S. travel centers and restaurants and an additional $100,000 donation from Pilot Company.
“The devastation in Ukraine is heartbreaking,” said Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company. “We've seen how our round-up giving campaigns can quickly make a difference thanks to the support of our team members and guests, and we are again in amazement of their generosity and compassion. This $1 million will help Save the Children meet the urgent and growing needs of children and families in Ukraine and the region. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this critical effort and to Save the Children for providing lifesaving assistance to the people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.”
Save the Children is providing relief for children and families inside Ukraine as well as in neighboring countries by delivering food, water, hygiene kits, voucher assistance and other humanitarian programs.
The organization aims to reach 10 million children and their families impacted by the Ukraine crisis.
“Save the Children is extremely grateful for Pilot Company's support in response to the devastating crisis in Ukraine,” said Luciana Bonifacio, chief development officer, Save the Children. “The funds raised will enable us to distribute critical emergency supplies and where possible, establish safe spaces for children, ultimately helping protect impacted children and families in Ukraine and neighboring countries.”
Meanwhile, Savannah, Georgia-based Enmarket raised $180,000 through its annual golf tournament, Charity Classic. The money will be split evenly between the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire and Make-a-Wish Georgia. This year’s tournament raised $20,000 more than the 2021 tournament.
“Enmarket works hard to be a good corporate citizen of the areas we serve,” said Brett Giesick, Enmarket’s president. “That means not only the services our stores provide, but support for the community at large as well. Enmarket is delighted to be able to support two such worthwhile organizations.”
The 200 Club serves the families of fallen first responders in the area, while Make-a-Wish Georgia grants wishes of seriously ill children.
“On behalf of the many family members the 200 Club proudly and honorably serves, we would like to thank Enmarket and the Enmarket family for their continued generosity and support,” said Mark Dana, president of the 200 Club.
“We are so thankful for the generous support of Enmarket and all of the sponsors of the Enmarket Charity Classic as they help us ignite hope for our local wish kids. The Enmarket Charity Classic will help us tremendously in our mission to grant the wish of every child fighting a critical illness,” said Meghan Lowe, Southeast development director for Make-a-Wish Georgia.