FMG Contributes $100,000 for Flood Relief

New Zealand’s leading rural insurer FMG today announced that it is contributing $100,000 to the Mayoral Relief Funds established by the Manawatu District Council.

FMG’s Chairman Peter Jensen said; “Half the people living in the region have been badly affected by the flooding. Those not immediately and directly affected will be touched by its consequences as the rural sector comprises a significant part of the region’s economy.”

The district council has established a District Relief Trust Fund and is looking to attract sponsorship from major businesses in the region.

“FMG stepped up and accepted this challenge, hoping that other organisations and government would match our contribution,” Mr Jensen said.

“Once the flood waters recede, they’ll leave damaged pasture and fences in their wake. Farmers will need to replace livestock lost in the flood and it will take some time for them to get back on their feet. Rural communities and businesses serving them will be hit hard by this disaster. Any help they can get will be much appreciated.

“As a business that serves farmers and rural communities and with our head office in Palmerston North, we are acutely aware of the immediate and anticipated longer-term impact on people and their livelihoods and, as a mutual organisation, we felt compelled to make a contribution to the relief effort.”

FMG is best known as a general insurer to rural communities. The company has received some 800 claims to date as a result of the recent adverse weather totalling in excess of $2 million dollars, and is processing these claims expeditiously to enable people to re-establish themselves as quickly as possible.

Mr Jensen said that those wanting to contribute to the flood relief funds could make a donation at any branch of the BNZ Bank.

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