Greater Caribbean Continues Cholera Aid Plan

Phase Two Includes the Donation of Dove^® Sensitive and Lifebuoy Bars

In November 2010, Unilever Caribe S.A. launched a relief effort to help stop the spread of the cholera epidemic in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Based on the severity of the problem, the company launched a second phase of relief support. At the end of 2010, Unilever committed to distributing approximately 1 million bars of soap to individuals afflicted by cholera in Haiti. The first wave included a donation of several cases of Dove Sensitive bar soap and the first of several shipments of Lifebuoy bar soap began to ship in February 2011. Shipments are expected to continue over the coming months.

The donations are being distributed by Partners in Health (PIH), a leading non-governmental organization committed to serving the rural poor in areas where health indicators are the most poor and medical services are most lacking. One of the largest non-governmental health care providers in Haiti, PIH’s extensive network of more than 2,500 community health and social workers has been mobilized to disseminate education and awareness around hygiene - as well as supplies such as soap - into the communities most affected by cholera.

The cases of Dove Sensitive bars delivered in December are going to good use at Zanmi Beni,a home for abandoned and physically and developmentally disabled children, most of whom have severe skin conditions. Zanmi Beni, which means “blessed friends” in Haitian Creole, provides refuge and support for children and is located just outside Port-au-Prince.

“The Cholera Aid Plan is a great example of our commitment to help more than a billion people improve their hygiene habits as defined in the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan,” said Eugenio Minvielle, Chairman Unilever NA. “Our Cholera relief team has ensured the Unilever assistance reaches the Haitian population as soon as possible.” 

 “Lifebuoy will help avoid the spread of new cholera infections and other diseases in contaminated waters in Haiti. We are proud to be able to offer our support in promoting health while generating awareness on the importance of hand washing,” said Pablo Garrido, Chairman Greater Caribbean.