While the international community has been moved by the tragedy caused by Typhoon Morakot which swept through Southern Taiwan on  the weekend of 8/9 August causing the worst flooding in half a century, Evergreen group chairman Chang Yung-Fa has already mobilised his companies to help with relief efforts for victims.  Dr Chang donated NT$100 million (USD3, 046,000) personally and NT420 million (USD12, 793,000) from the Evergreen Group.  

In response to Dr Chang’s call, all members and friends of the Evergreen ‘family’, whether overseas affiliates, agents or business partners, are actively participating in this relief effort.  Among them, Norwegian Assuranceforeningen GARD—Evergreen’s fleet insurance company, is leading the initiative with a USD100, 000 donation to the Chang Yung-Fa Foundation.  Mr Claes Isacson, Chief Executive Officer of GARD, stated: ‘’ we would like to convey our deepest sympathy for the victims and their families.”

At the very beginning of the tragedy, Dr Chang asked the staff of the Foundation to travel to the affected areas to provide immediate assistance and relief support.  So far there have been over 50,000 aid boxes containing nutritious food and drink, 700 boxes of bottled water & instant noodles, and other diverse relief goods delivered to the areas.  Currently there are five groups of people from the Foundation stationed in the seriously hit areas to provide support with the needs and reconstruction. 

The Evergreen Group will continue to review its relief efforts and seek to find additional ways in which it can assist in the long term by using to the full its comprehensive land, sea and air networks.

Norwegian Assuranceforeningen GARD was established in 1907. It is one of the premier Protection & Indemnity insurers among the 13 members of the International Group of P&I Clubs having 170,000,000 gross tonnages with 15% market share.

GARD has enjoyed a good relationship with the Evergreen Group since Evergreen’s fleet joined the Club 30 years ago. The Evergreen Symphony Orchestra was invited to take part in the company’s centenary activities in 2007.

###