Cisco Commits $225m to combat coronavirus pandemic

Cisco Systems is dedicating $225m in cash and product donations to support both global and local responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to putting up funds, Cisco said it is rallying its 77,000 employees to also do what they can to help those on the front lines and nonprofits within their communities battling the outbreak.

“Cisco must, and will, do even more to help others respond to this global pandemic,” said Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins in a blog post published Sunday evening. “Many people in our communities were already struggling before this tragic pandemic. People who were already vulnerable are facing even more risks to their health, stability, housing, and well-being.”

Cisco’s investment includes $8m in cash and $210m in product that will be dispersed across several groups. Specifically, Cisco will be supporting health care, education, and government response, according to the San Jose, Calif.-based company.

Cisco will be allocating some funds to the United Nations Foundation’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, supporting the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) worldwide efforts to help prevent, detect and manage the spread of COVID-19, Robbins said.

Robbins said that Cisco is launching a 72-hour giving campaign called “Let’s Give Together” this week to encourage donations from its employees. The Cisco Foundation is allocating up to $5m in grants for causes that are important to its employees and is matching employee funds.

“I am certain that our people will continue to do what’s right for the world,” Robbins said in his blog post. “We will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on our employees, customers, partners, and communities, and evaluate other ways we can help as things evolve. While our world will be different as we move into the future, it is important that we stay focused on making a positive impact in every way possible.”