14 DAY TRIAL // With the death toll estimated to rise as high as 100,000 from the initial official tally of just 22,500, Myanmar is in dire need of international help. And while governments and humanitarian associations are already working with the country's military leaders for the streamlining of the process of delivering relief supplies, Microsoft is ready to join the action. In this context, the Redmond company announced new initiatives designed to provide support for the cyclone victims in Myanmar. First off, Microsoft is turning to its own employees, promising to match donations dollar for dollar and then it is also preparing to deliver an influx of technology in the affected area.
"At Microsoft, we are saddened by the devastation caused by the cyclone in Myanmar, and our hearts go out to the many people impacted by this tragedy. We have encouraged employees who wish to donate to give through our partner international humanitarian relief organizations, such as CARE, World Vision, The American Red Cross or Save the Children. Donations will be matched by Microsoft for United States based eligible employees," the Redmond company revealed.
The support Microsoft is readying for the Myanmar disaster is not the only example of the company's humanitarian efforts. In fact, Microsoft has a long tradition of partnering with humanitarian organizations in order to deliver resources, support and relief to impacted regions around the world. NetHope is an organization focused on supplying information and communication technology in disaster response scenarios in order to increase the efficiency of the relief efforts.
"We are partnering with NetHope - a nonprofit IT consortium of leading international NGOs - to provide technology resources and support as needed. In past disaster situations, we have provided various technology solutions to help humanitarian organizations respond, including: development of a tracking system for displaced people; updated online maps of the impacted regions; a volunteer registration tool; a satellite communications infrastructure for non-governmental organizations; and a software application localized to meet language needs," Microsoft added.