Baxter reports 2007 charitable giving

Baxter International and the Baxter Foundation have given a report on their charitable giving during 2007.

The company and its philanthropic unit report that they donated almost $53 million (26 million pounds) last year, with these funds focused on addressing critical needs at both a local and global level.

Groups that received grants from the firm include Aldeas Infantiles SOS De Espana in Spain, Con Nosotros in Mexico and ORBIS International in China.

In total, $31.1 million of products was donated to countries in crisis and developing nations, $18.4 million was given by Baxter’s facilities and businesses to address key local needs and $3.1 million was given to support philanthropic work from employers.

Robert L Parkinson, chairman and chief executive officer of Baxter, said: “As a global healthcare company we address some of the world’s key sustainability challenges every day.

“Increasing access to healthcare is one of our sustainability priorities.”

He added that the provision of grants to improve public health, efforts to boost employee wellness and product donations underline its dedication to meeting these challenges.

Last month, Baxter noted that it had recently named one of the most sustainable corporations in rankings published by Innovest Strategic Value Advisors.