Hurricane Dorian, the strongest storm to hit the Bahamas, struck the Abacos Island on Sunday, September 1 and stalled at Freeport through Tuesday, September 3 causing mass devastation and loss of life. Bahamas Prime Minister Hubert Minnis has referenced the aftermath as a “historic tragedy.”

The Recovery and rebuilding efforts will take time, and help is needed urgently.

Mastercard who operates across the Bahama Islands, has announced today it will make a donation of US$200,000 to the American Red Cross and also partner with the organization, among others, to expand aid delivery.

Additionally, together with its issuing banks, Mastercard will waive any interchange related to donations through November 15, 2019 to a variety of charitable organizations supporting those impacted by the recent natural disaster.

Specific charities include:

• Americares

• American Red Cross

• Doctors Without Borders

• International Rescue Committee

• Mercy Corps

• Save the Children

• World Vision

• World Food Program USA

Mastercard employees have also raised their hands to help and the company has launched a supply and donations drive.  As part of this, the company will match every employee donation made by employees.

During difficult times like these, it’s important that we come together to help one another.  Each year, the people of the Bahamas welcome millions of people from around the world with warmth and hospitality.  The devastation will greatly impact their livelihood which predominantly comes from tourism and take years to recover.

Mastercard will continue to use the strength of our network, technology, insights, and know-how to help the communities where we live and work solve social and humanitarian challenges. Our priority as community members is focused on ensuring that much needed relief and donations make their way to the people that need them most as quickly as possible.

Join us in supporting the American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/mastercard-pub.html/