Carnival Corp. has pledged help to rebuild Hurricane ravaged communities in Florida and the Caribbean with a donation of up to $10 million.
To kick it off, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation will donate $2.5 million to Direct Relief, UNICEF and the United Way of Miami-Dade County
In addition Carnival Corp. chairman Micky Arison and wife Madeleine will match a commitment by the cruise company and the Miami Heat Charitable Fund to rasie a combined $5 million for relief efforts.
"We are committed to supporting relief efforts where Hurricane Irma left an impact in Florida and the Caribbean, starting with immediate humanitarian needs and recovery efforts that will have a meaningful impact," said Carnival Corp. CEO Arnold Donald.
"Hurricane Irma’s impact strikes close to home both in our home state of Florida and across the Caribbean, where we and our brands have made many friends and partners over many years."
Carnival Cruise Line will use 11 ships to transport much needed supplies including food, water, clothing, medical supplies and generators to impacted areas.
Carnival employees are being encouraged to support efforts in Texas, Florida and the Caribbean by making donations which will be matched by the company.
