The BluePearl veterinary hospital chain’s 5,300 employees can apply for $500 to $3,000 in financial assistance under a program launched by sister company Banfield Pet Hospital.
The Better Together Fund is designed to help employees who are in dire financial straits because of domestic violence or a disaster such as a fire, flood, tornado, hurricane or earthquake.
“While we hope our associates never have to face a hardship of any kind, this initiative tells them that they are not alone,” said Darryl Shaw, founder and CEO of BluePearl. “The strength of the BluePearl and Banfield community is behind them. Every day, our associates show kindness to clients and pets and now we can extend the same kindness to them.”
The tax-free grants are intended to cover sudden expenses such as housing, utilities, food and clothing.
A selection committee made up of BluePearl and Banfield employees oversees disbursements. More than $160,000 has been handed out since Banfield launched the program in 2016.
The Better Together Fund is financially supported by Banfield, BluePearl and private donors. More information is available at http://bit.ly/2Pavgx9.
Banfield, with 1,050 hospitals, and BluePearl, with more than 80 locations, are owned by Mars Inc.
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