News | 15 March 2022
ISTAT Foundation Launches $1 Million Ukraine Relief Fund to Support Humanitarian Response Efforts
The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading Foundation announced that it has established a relief fund in response to the urgent and growing humanitarian crisis that is unfolding in the wake of the conflict in Ukraine.
The Ukraine Relief Fund with a fundraising goal of US$1,000,000 will provide immediate financial support for the efforts of Airlink, Inc., the foundation’s long-time partner, and other aviation-focused non-governmental organization (“NGO”) partners in delivering direct humanitarian aid, response teams, and critical supplies to Ukraine. Airlink is a global humanitarian organization delivering critical aid to communities in crisis by providing airlift and logistical solutions to nonprofit partners, changing the way the humanitarian community responds to disasters around the world.
“This is a very tragic humanitarian disaster and will require significant aid for the refugees. With this fund we, together with the ISTAT community, are delighted to be able to provide much needed financial support towards these relief efforts,” said ISTAT Foundation Chair, Peter Huijbers.
The ISTAT Foundation made an initial contribution of $300,000 toward the fund. ISTAT has also committed up to $300,000 in additional relief through an ISTAT Matching Campaign to help reach the goal of $1,000,000.
The immediate generous response from the industry has brought in a $100,000 pledge from Air Lease Corporation, and Pratt & Whitney has made a $25,000 commitment for the matching campaign.
“Air Lease Corporation was eager to support this initiative which will provide critical and urgent assistance through Airlink to those impacted first hand by the tragedy and exodus from Ukraine,” said John L. Plueger, CEO and President of Air Lease Corporation.
“The people of Ukraine are at the forefront of our minds as we make this pledge to support the humanitarian relief efforts,” said Rick Deurloo, chief commercial officer at Pratt & Whitney. “We’re proud to be part of ISTAT’s commitment to the community. Times like these remind us of the importance of coming together to support one another across the globe.”
Other companies and individuals are invited to participate in the effort by donating to the fund. Questions may be directed to foundation@istat.org.