Casino operator MGM Resorts has announced a number of initiatives to support people in the US impacted financially by the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, including a $1m crisis and disaster relief pledge into an emergency grant fund for staff.
The MGM Resorts Emergency Relief Fund provides MGM employees and their families with short-term relief in making payments during unexpected hardships and emergencies.
The latest $1m pledge will be used to assist MGM staff impacted by coronavirus, including full-time employees, on-call staff and those facing lay-off, separation or furlough.
Aside from this, MGM will offer help to the wider population in the US through a number of new initiatives, such as donating more than 480,000 pounds of food – or 400,000 meals – to the communities in which it operates.
The food donation project will cover areas such as Las Vegas, Nevada; Oxon Hill, Maryland; Springfield, Massachusetts; Biloxi and Tunica in Mississippi; Detroit, Michigan; Northfield, Ohio; Atlantic City, New Jersey and Yonkers, New York.
“As we confront extraordinary events and an unprecedented global pandemic crisis, we know that this is an extremely challenging and uncertain time for many of our employees, their families, friends and neighbours and we are committed to help those in need,” said Bill Hornbuckle, who was this week appointed as acting chief executive and president of MGM Resorts International.
“We have done a number of things to help our colleagues, including significantly expanding eligibility coverage for the MGM Employee Emergency Grant Fund. MGM Resorts International is donating $1m towards disaster relief to offer additional support to employees impacted by the crisis and who may be experiencing hardships.”
Jyoti Chopra, senior vice president, chief diversity and sustainability officer for MGM Resorts International, added: “In battling the current global crisis, at MGM Resorts we intend to embrace humanity, exemplify inclusion and exhibit compassion.
“Our commitment to our employees and the communities in which we operate, conduct business and serve our customers, remains steadfast.”