A fundraising campaign by the Tui Care Foundation has raised more than €175,000 to support relief measures on the Canary island of La Palma – hit by a volcanic eruption last autumn.
The eruption caused havoc for three months, with layers of lava wrecking homes and schools and more than 7,000 residents being evacuated.
The fundraising campaign was launched with Tui brands and every donation made by guests was matched by the foundation.
Thanks to the donations, a local aid organisation has distributed almost 180,000 food parcels and another is offering psychological and wellbeing support to affected pupils and teachers.
Bernd Mäser, managing director of Tui’s Robinson brand, said: “The Canary Islands and Robinson have had a special connection for decades and are extremely close to the hearts of our customers and colleagues.
“So it was very important to us to help at this time of need. Their incredible generosity has ensured that the people of La Palma affected by the volcanic eruption will have long-term support, to help them cope with the future consequences of the catastrophe.”
The Tui Care Foundation Emergency Aid programme was set up to provide rapid assistance to local communities in the event of natural disaster in holiday destinations.
Other emergency relief campaigns have raised funds for people affected by forest fires in Turkey and Greece.