Ikea U.S. Donates $1.6 Million in Supplies to Pandemic Relief Efforts

April 24, 2020  by Laurie Northington in Business Strategy, Industry   

"At Ikea, we are guided by a simple, yet powerful vision of creating a better everyday life for the many people," said Javier Quiñones, president and chief sustainability officer, Ikea Retail U.S. "No matter how challenging times are, we are always committed to being a good neighbor and demonstrating commitment to local communities."

Ikea U.S. has worked with partners and local government agencies to identify critical needs to ensure it is doing its part for the communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ikea U.S. stores and distribution centers are donating items such as blankets, bedding, and storage solutions for blood drives and temporary hospitals and shelters. The company also recently retrieved more than 30,000 N-95 masks from its operations that will be donated to local medical organizations and medical workers. Organizations in need of Ikea products and supplies can reach out through their local IKEA store's information page to find a donation request form. 

The $1.6 million donation of Ikea products and supplies in the U.S. will support the health and recovery of those affected by COVID-19 as follows: 

• More than $900,000 in products and supplies to departments of health in the nine most-heavily impacted states (California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington) as identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as well as organizations in the communities surrounding its 60 stores and fulfillment units to support immediate emergency efforts. 
• A combined total of $100,000 worth of Ikea product to the American Red Cross and Feeding America to assist these non-profit partners in delivering their lifesaving missions 
• To support longer-term needs, an additional $600,000 allocated for stores and distribution units to assist with local efforts to relieve homelessness and isolation