ING Direct clients and staff have contributed over $600,000 to help those devastated the massive earthquake in Haiti on January 12, the company announced Tuesday.

“The response was overwhelming,” says Peter Aceto, president & CEO at ING Direct, who posted a thank you online to ING Direct clients and staff for their generosity.

The funds, which were donated to the Canadian Red Cross, were matched dollar-for-dollar by the Government of Canada, up until February 12, doubling the money raised. In addition, ING Direct matched the first $50,000 in client donations, bringing the combined contribution to over $1.25 million.

“The generosity and support of ING Direct and its clients will help the Red Cross continue to provide for immediate needs including shelter, clean water and medical support as well as address longer-term needs of the affected communities as we begin to help them rebuild and recover,” says Ron Kelusky, director general of the Red Cross in Ontario.

“Our sympathies continue to be with all the people affected by the earthquake in Haiti,” said Peter Aceto, President & CEO at ING Direct.

“We were honoured to be able to contribute toward the aid efforts by enabling donations through our website and to partner with the Canadian Red Cross to ensure those funds reach the people of Haiti and help them during the long rebuilding efforts ahead.”

IE