Ugg, a division of Deckers Brands, will launch the Better Together initiative to donate more than $1 million to the COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts, through monetary and product donations. Building on the company’s existing philanthropic platform, the COVID-19 response is focused on several initiatives and aims to bring much needed comfort and solace during this unprecedented time.
“Our hearts are with our friends, colleagues, customers and those on the front lines during this pandemic,” says Dave Powers, president and CEO of Deckers Brands. “The newly launched Better Together initiative aims to deliver relief, support and comfort to those most in need. We are in this together.”
Given the crisis in New York, the brand’s passionate consumer base and home to four Ugg stores, the brand has committed to donate funds to NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest public healthcare system in the nation who cares for all, regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. In this COVID-19 crisis, their dedicated, compassionate, brave workforce of more than 42,000 employees are on the front lines caring for New Yorkers in Emergency Rooms, ICUs, community health centers and nursing homes.
Additionally, Ugg has initiated partnerships with select hotels that have opened their rooms to first responders and medical personnel. When these workers return to their rooms after a challenging day, they will now be welcomed with comforting Ugg products, such as luxurious slippers and plush robes.
In this new normal, we are surrounded by extraordinary acts of kindness, love and support to those that need it most. To acknowledge and thank these real-life superheroes, Ugg is launching an Instagram giveback on Apr. 10. #UGGTOGETHER Instagram Giveaway to Real-Life Heroes. Each week for a month, the brand will give 500 pairs of slippers to these individuals, highlighting their stories and providing a small dose of comfort in these uncertain times.
Deckers Brands has also established the Santa Barbara Better Together Fund at the Santa Barbara Foundation, and pledged to support the local community it has called home for 47 years. The fund also calls for other community leaders to contribute to small businesses and deliver vital supplies during this time.
Additionally, Deckers Brands has partnered with Santa Barbara-based Sansum Clinic, one of the oldest non-profit outpatient clinics and one of the largest healthcare providers on the south and central coasts of California. Deckers has committed to provide one pair of Ugg and one pair of Hoka products to 145 healthcare workers.
