When many think of Panda Express, it might be about Orange Chicken and Honey Walnut Shrimp. For the Red Cross, we think of their incredible generosity over the years toward large disaster responses. Their food has kept us fed, and their generosity has kept us motivated to provide more for those in need. Collectively, Panda Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express, has donated more than $6.3M toward Red Cross disaster relief, include support during the aftermath of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Michael.
Most recently, Panda Cares turned on their in-store donation program and a dollar-for-dollar corporate matching program for the Red Cross and raised $1.7M in one week to support our relief efforts in Ukraine.
In an interview from 2017, Peggy Cherng, co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Express, said the company is driven by Panda’s spirit of giving.
"We hope to bring some sense of comfort, nourishment and relief to the millions of people affected by disaster. Whether it is through donating to an organization such as the American Red Cross, who directly helps with disaster relief efforts, or by providing warm meals to those in need, we can all do our part for our communities.”
Panda Care’s 23-year commitment to volunteer services and disaster relief makes this partnership with the Red Cross a natural fit.
In addition to the company giving, the Panda family also has come together of the years with support. Whenever there was a time of need, Panda created an environment where their associates were empowered to do what they can to support the community. Many of our associates have volunteered their time to deliver hot meals to first responders, hospitals and shelters, as well as money to our disaster relief efforts.
"Being able to help those in need is Panda’s way to pay it forward,” Cherng said. “We have been so blessed as an organization. We believe in the work that American Red Cross has done to make a positive impact on so many lives during times of need. We know that support is crucial to continue the great work.”
Many may not know that when a disaster has hit the Red Cross Regions across the country, be it big or small, Panda has immediately reached out and donated food. They have not only fed those in need, but their generosity has also provided fuel to Red Crossers, who work all hours to make sure help is provided. They have never held back, and now, for Red Crossers, the name Panda has become synonymous with support and comfort.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
