Amgen commits $50,000 to support flood affected communities

The Amgen Foundation has committed $50,000 to the Australian Red Cross Flood appeal, to assist humanitarian efforts and help people and communities across New South Wales and Queensland affected by the 2022 floods.

Amgen Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Shannon Sullivan, said, “The scale of this natural disaster is truly extraordinary, and our thoughts are with all of those whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed.

“We understand that the road to recovery will be a long and complex one and are pleased that the Amgen Foundation is able to support the vital work of the Red Cross at this time.”

The Amgen Foundation is the principal channel for Amgen’s corporate philanthropy. Operating since 1991, the Foundation has contributed more than USD 375 million to initiatives that strengthen the communities where Amgen staff members live and work, including investing over USD 200 million in innovative science education programs.

“We’re incredibly proud of the work of the Amgen Foundation, both here in Australia and across the globe,” Sullivan said. “Whether it’s bushfire or flood recovery, or support for disaster relief efforts in war-torn Ukraine, the Amgen Foundation provides meaningful financial assistance where it’s needed most and we’re thankful for their swift response.”

Beyond monetary support from the Foundation, the local Amgen Australia team has also swung into action, offering a helping hand to those impacted by flooding and water damage.

“I’ve been so moved by the genuine care and compassion that our team has shown. We unfortunately had several colleagues who found themselves directly threatened by floodwaters and their workmates were among the first to offer support and logistical assistance. The stories I’ve heard are heart-warming and speak volumes about the culture of our organisation,” Sullivan added.

With the clean-up and recovery effort only just beginning in many areas, Amgen Australia has sought to empower all staff to use their two-day volunteering leave entitlement to help flood affected communities in the days and weeks ahead.

“We want everyone to be able to roll up their sleeves and pitch in to help those in need, so we’ve made the decision to waive the requirement that volunteering leave can only be used when working with a registered charity. It’s a small change that we hope can deliver a big impact on the ground,” Sullivan concluded.