Oct. 1, 2009 (Business Wire) -- MoneyGram International (NYSE:MGI), a leading global payment services company, announced today that it would make a $20,000 MoneyGram Global Giving grant to the American Red Cross for relief in the Philippines, and implement a temporary reduction in money transfer fees, as part of a coordinated effort with its money transfer agents in response to the historic-level of devastation from Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) hit the Philippines on Saturday.
“MoneyGram is eager to help Filipinos continue their recovery and respond to the urgent needs in the communities devastated by Ondoy,” said Dan O’Malley, senior vice president and president of the Americas. “In addition, MoneyGram understands how vital it is for families and friends to support one another especially in times of great need. To provide the greatest immediate benefit to affected families, MoneyGram is offering reduced fees for transactions sent to the Philippines from our North American agents, including large U.S. retailers and Canada Post.”
The $2 fee reduction for dollar-to-peso payout is available from Oct. 2 – Oct. 16 at all North American MoneyGram agent locations, including Walmart, CVS/pharmacy, ACE Cash Express, AdvanceAmerica, Canada Post and the SuperValu locations operating under a variety of brands including ACME, Albertsons, bigg's, Bristol Farms, Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Jewel-Osco, Lucky, Shaws Star Market, Shop'n Save and SHOPPERS.
“We hope this effort by MoneyGram and our agents will assist our customers in maximizing the funds sent to loved ones,” O’Malley said. “Most of our agent locations in the Philippines have remained open since Ondoy and locations in the hardest hit areas are working to restore services to ensure funds are available for the people who need help the most.”
The MoneyGram Global Giving Program issues grants to organizations around the globe, including those that respond in times of disaster. The program also awards grants for basic needs and essential literacy and education. Last year, MoneyGram awarded funds to programs in more than 20 countries. More information is available at www.moneygram.com/giving.
About MoneyGram International
MoneyGram International offers more control and more choices for people separated from friends and family by distance or those with limited bank relationships to meet their financial needs. A leading global provider of money transfer services, MoneyGram International helps consumers to safely send money around the world with funds arriving at available agent locations in as little as 10 minutes. Its global network is comprised of 180,000 agent locations in more than 190 countries and territories. MoneyGram’s convenient and reliable network includes retailers, international post offices and financial institutions. To learn more about money transfer at an agent location, please visit www.moneygram.com.
