Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. and Sandoz Canada Inc. announced that $500,000 will be given to community and patient groups as part of the companies’ newly created Community Strong COVID-19 response program. Bringing support to communities in need and collaborating with patient organizations to address the needs of patients is very much a priority for the organization at this critical time.

The Community Strong program was initiated by Novartis in Canada, which includes the Innovative Medicines Division (Oncology and Pharma business units) and Sandoz Canada, and is an immediate response to support Canadians who are most in need. A portion of the response fund has been allocated to donations to support patient organizations with COVID-19-related objectives. As part of the program and to support the generosity of associates from across the Novartis divisions, an employee donation program has been established whereby up to $50,000 in contributions will be matched by the company. 

“I am proud to say that since the beginning of this crisis, we have not wavered on our delivery of medicines to patients who count on them or on our commitment to healthcare professionals. We recognize that the needs of communities across the country are much greater at this time and created the Community Strong program to show we care,” said Christian Macher, Country President, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. “We are inspired by all individuals who are going above and beyond, including our associates who themselves will be making personal donations. Our communities need us and so do the patients we serve.” 

United Way Centraide Canada and Food Banks Canada have been identified as the first organizations to receive donations through the Novartis Community Strong COVID-19 Response program.

Click HERE for the full press release.