IKEA U.S. Supports local American Red Cross affiliates by donating 'Care Kits for the Homeless'

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May 15, 2017, 10:59 ET

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., May 15, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Now in its third year, IKEA U.S. continues its product donation program to the American Red Cross running May 15^th – 31st. This year, IKEA is focusing on the vulnerable and disadvantaged homeless in its 45 local markets through its donation of 4,500 'Care Kits for the Homeless.' These kits consist of backpacks packed with necessity items such as a poncho, washcloths, towels, water and food. Each designated location will receive 100 'Care Kits for the Homeless'; backpacks, packed by IKEA co-workers to be distributed nationally.

"IKEA wants to help create a better life for the many people and communities touched by our business," said Evamay Lawson, Head of IKEA US Community Affairs. "Through our partnership with the American Red Cross, we are hoping to extend a hand of help to the homeless families and individuals in our local communities without access to basic necessities."

Last year, IKEA worked with the Red Cross and donated over 4,000 care packages for the Disaster Responder Program. These comfort care packages consisted of everyday home items, such as: sheets, pillows, towels and toys to help families get back on their feet.

"We are grateful for the IKEA partnership and their focus on helping homeless and vulnerable populations," said Barb Larkin, American Red Cross Senior Director of Corporate Relationships. "These kits will provide comfort to thousands of people – including support for the homeless veteran standowns that the Red Cross supports across the country and vulnerable people who have experienced emergencies."

The Red Cross depends on the generous support of the American public to fulfil its crucial mission. By making a charitable donation to the Red Cross, you are there for millions of people who face emergencies every year and help as they rebuild their lives. Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make a donation.

About IKEA:
Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 392 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 43 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

SOURCE IKEA