Dubai/Lebanon, 21 September 2020 – Julius Baer Cares and Julius Baer Foundation have pledged a donation of approximately USD 170,000 to support the recovery of Lebanon and meet the needs of families impacted by the tragic event that took place at the port in Beirut on 4 August 2020. Contributions were made to fund programmes that are dedicated to providing urgent relief efforts including supporting victims of the explosions, evacuating and housing survivors and rebuilding of medical facilities & patient/childcare centres,

The funds will be equitably distributed among the Lebanese Red Cross, the Lebanese Hospital Geitaoui, the Saint George Hospital University Medical Center and the Assameh Birth and Beyond Pediatric Unit in Karantina Hospital.

A number of Julius Baer staff were inclined to show their support to families, friends and the community in general in Beirut. As a result, an internal fundraising initiative was put in place and run by the grass root employee organisation ‘JB Cares’. The Group’s non-profit grant foundation, the Julius Baer Foundation, also supported the internal efforts by adding to the employees’ contribution.

Commenting on the initiative, Régis Burger, Head Middle East & Africa at Julius Baer, said: “Our thoughts remain with all affected people across Lebanon. Through the acquisition of Merrill Lynch’s business, we have a presence for over 55 years in the country and a loyal client base. We hope that our humble contribution will support the rebuilding efforts in Beirut and create a safe environment for its communities that are in need of emergency aid.”

John Dagher, CEO of Julius Baer (Lebanon) S.A.L., commented: “Though I am completely saddened by the devastation in the aftermath of the explosions, I am proud to see the show of international solidarity from colleagues across Julius Baer locations globally to support our fund raising efforts. We hope to continue serving our clients in Lebanon and the Levant region with the same level of dedication and perseverance and hope to come back even stronger.”