As the business sector’s ‘keeper of record’ in times of disasters, the U.S. Chamber Business Civic Leadership Center (BCLC) keeps up-to-date contributions for Japan.  Today we are happy to report that the business community has made cash and/or in-kind contributions of more than $200.8 million. 

This figure includes 222 companies – representing U.S.-based companies, multinational corporations and foreign companies, as well as U.S. Chamber members and non-members.  At least 72 companies have pledged $1 million or more in cash and/or in-kind assistance.  Of the 222 business donors, 157 are U.S.-based companies, representing $156 million in aid. 

If your business is thinking of ways it can help, be sure to follow BCLC’s key guidelines of ‘do no harm’:

1. Allow first responders to do their jobs.  Do not send volunteers or material goods to an impact zone unless it is known they are needed.
2. Work only with credible humanitarian organizations that are operating within the impact zone.  If your company needs help finding a credible organization that can use your contribution effectively, contact the Disaster Help Desk for Business by email (bclchelpdesk@uschamber.com) or phone (888-692-4943).
3. Distinguish between a ‘pledge’ and a ‘donation.’  It is not necessary or wise to distribute the full donation in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, when first responders are inundated with offers of help. The long-term recovery and rebuilding stage is when many resources are still needed, but when the fewest donors give support.

The U.S. Chamber’s BCLC is a fast informational resource for businesses that have questions about how best to help.  Any businesses able and willing to contribute, please contact the Disaster Help Desk for Business to ask how your pledge can be used most effectively. 

Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on business’ continued efforts: @ChamberBCLC