Canon gives aid to Samoa

In the spirit of Canon’s Kyosei corporate philosophy of “Living and working together for the common good,” Canon New Zealand made a $10,000 donation to The Red Cross – Samoan Earthquake and Tsunami Appeal, to assist the work currently taking place to rebuild the devastated island.

Laufale Tanu Tautala, an elder of Sataoa, one of the villages hit by the tsunami on 30 September and Field Operations Supervisor at Canon NZ, has lived in New Zealand for over 20 years but has strong ties to family and friends in Samoa affected by the tragedy.

“Nothing can prepare you for a disaster such as this, but now it is about how we can rally together and provide support to those affected,” says Tanu.

Tanu had the pleasure of meeting Samoan Red Cross National President, Mr Muagututagata Pita Ah Him and the Secretary General Ms Tautala Mauala at the Red Cross Pacific Forum in Auckland to present the cheque.

“It is at a time like this when my community is dealing with death and destruction that being able to give aid is so important, and I am proud that Canon NZ has made this happen,” says Tanu.

Mike Johnston, Country Manager Canon NZ, said that not only has Canon made this donation to support the relief effort but Canon’s local New Zealand staff collected and donated hundreds of dollars on their own initiative.

“The compassion demonstrated by New Zealanders to raise money, send supplies and provide aid is phenomenal. Particularly because of our close ties with nations in the Pacific it is very rewarding to be part of the relief effort.” says Johnston.

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About Canon

Canon New Zealand is a leading provider of advanced, simple-to-use imaging solutions for businesses and consumers. Canon has ranked among the top-three US patent recipients for the past 15 years, and had global revenues of around $US39 billion in 2007. Canon New Zealand also operates Canon Finance New Zealand, which offers one-stop shopping for customers wanting leasing or finance services. For more information, visit www.canon.co.nz