Fashion brand Levi’s has shown its support in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic with a donation of US$3 million which will be dispersed to support its employees, community partners and those in its supply chain.

The San Fran firm says it will also donate medical-grade face masks to hospitals around the world to alleviate strains on healthcare facilities, with 10,000 shipped thus far.

“This is just the beginning, and we will keep you updated as our company response develops,” Levi’s CEO, Chip Bergh, wrote to the brand’s employees. “I know we are asking a great deal of all of you, and as always, you are rising to the challenge.”

Levi’s has stated that as part of the initiative, it will work with organisations across its major sourcing hubs to provide funding where needed.

It comes as countries in southeast Asia are crippled by cancelled orders and subsequent factory closures. In Bangladesh, it’s said that more than one million workers will lose their jobs due to the implications the virus outbreak has caused in the fashion industry.

Meanwhile in Cambodia, it’s feared up to 60 per cent of factories could be forced to suspend trade before the end of the month.

As it looks to provide some respite, Levi’s says its altruistic work will provide public health support and food security for factory workers. The company has also introduced a 3:1 Employee Giving Campaign which has raised upwards of US$160,000 to support its partner organisations.

Bergh said: “Your response during this time continually renews my optimism that we will successfully navigate this crisis, as we have so many others in our 167-year history.”

Source: EcoTextile News