An important message for the industry from ASI CEO Tim Andrews:

The situation in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico remains dire, with thousands in desperate need of food, water, fuel, doctors and medicine. To help, ASI is pledging $10,000 to match cash contributions to either of two specific charitable organizations, a continuation of a $25,000 matching fund drive for Texas and the Gulf also impacted by recent hurricanes. Thanks to the generosity of members of our industry, to date, the ASI fund drives have raised $93,150 for relief efforts.

There are 99 ASI-listed distributors in Puerto Rico alone, home to 3.4 million American citizens (more than many states). Power failures and communication outages remain widespread, with recovery months away. Worse, the disaster has impacted an estimated 700,000 children. At the same time, Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands and other Caribbean islands also suffered devastating losses.

To be counted in ASI’s fund drive, please attach your receipt(s) and email it to hurricanerelief@asicentral.com showing your contribution, which may be to either of the following: 

• The American Red Cross accepts donations on its website (www.redcross.org), or text IRMA to 90999 to donate $10. Click here to read about Red Cross efforts in Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Save the Children Hurricane Maria Children’s Relief Fund, dedicated to helping children and families in Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic with emergency assistance (Note: 10% of funds donated to specific emergencies go to the organization’s Children’s Emergency Fund.)

This is important: Giving money to vetted and established relief agencies is always the best way to help, especially in areas not easily accessible to transportation, like the islands.

These days, it’s easy to be cynical, put blinders on and think only of our own problems. Then, disaster strikes. Suddenly, we’re not competitors out for our own benefit – we’re people helping people in need. This has never been more evident to me than with our industry’s generous contributions of cash, products and volunteer time during this unprecedented hurricane season.

ASI’s entire staff is also ready to help any impacted industry company in any way possible. Check here for the latest industry updates from Florida and here for the promotional products companies impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and the Gulf. If your company has been impacted, notify us at feedback@asicentral.com.

For other needs/questions:

• Impacted customers who need immediate, short-term help hosting anything in ASI’s data center or who need free technical expertise can email ASI’s chief technology officer at Armughan.rafat@asicentral.com.
• ASI will also replace, at no cost, any of its products and services lost by members in the disasters. Email requests to feedback@asicentral.com indicating what was lost and the shipping address for replacements.

Your response throughout this terrible time has been nothing short of phenomenal. Thanks to you, hundreds of thousands of people who lost everything received money, shelter, clothing, first-aid supplies, school supplies – the list goes on. We are indeed part of a very special community.