Employees donate their Christmas presents

The annual Christmas present from Storebrand to its employees was this year divided between four charitable organisations.

Storebrand's new Christmas tradition of replacing the company Christmas present with a charitable donation is an illustration of our employees wanting to make a difference for those in need during the holiday season.

The employees were given the opportunity to vote for a charity of their choice who would in turn receive a gift of NOK 200. The choice was given between The Church City Mission, The Norwegian Cancer Society, the Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

All the donations, NOK 310 000 in total, were earmarked projects that support people facing hardships during the Christmas season: the Red Cross organises soup kitchens for children in Northwest Russia, The Church City Mission hands out Christmas bags with foods and tobacco to the homeless, the Norwegian Cancer Society gives financial support to cancer patients facing economic difficulties during the holidays, and the Salvation Army organises a big Christmas dinner and provides financial assistance to the needy.

Excerpts from the organisations' responses:

The Red Cross: We would like to thank you for your contribution, which will provide 360 impoverished children in Northwest Russia with warm meals throughout the winter months. When employees donate their Christmas presents in this manner it is a sign that corporate responsibility is truly legitimate on all levels in Storebrand.

The Church City Mission: This is a great effort by Storebrand. That large companies support a charitable cause before Christmas has become commonplace, but the manner in which this effort encourages each employee to acquire some knowledge about the organisations and then make an independent selection is very positive in our opinion.

The Salvation Army: I am impressed by your generosity and enthusiasm. Your contribution helps us at the Slum station provide aid to those who need it the most. A doll for Christmas, winter boots for someone who is cold or a member fee to a sports team for someone who wants to practice with mates. Your gift will feel like warming rays of sunshine for very many people, sincerely thanks!

The Norwegian Cancer Society: Your commitment and enthusiasm make us humble and very impressed! Your gift will help many cancer patients who are struggling financially while perhaps celebrating their last Christmas. Your Christmas gift helps us help others with an amount that makes a difference.