It has also boosted international efforts with a $10m donation to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
“Our people are fully committed and are working tirelessly to ensure that supply is maintained,” the company said.
“We are working very hard to keep them healthy and safe. In recent weeks, we have implemented enhanced safety measures at all our sites, with particular focus on our frontline workers in Nestlé factories, quality labs and distribution centers.
Also, where needed, we are offering free meals and transport for staff to help reduce the risk they fall ill. In addition, we have put in place generous sick leave arrangements for those who contract the virus and will provide cash loans or advances for those in financial distress. All hourly and salaried staff affected by temporary stoppages will be paid in full for a minimum of twelve weeks.”
Nestlé said it has also provided support to charities, medical institutions and other organizations in the frontline of the fight against this pandemic.
“We have worked very closely with physicians to develop new tailored COVID-19 medical nutrition and supplement treatment protocols. We have also donated to food banks and food delivery organizations to support people in need.
“And we are providing prompt and pragmatic support to our business partners, for example in our supply chains, who are affected by this crisis. Our efforts are continuing - and stepping up - around the world.”
The company has also announced it is joining forces with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in response to its emergency appeal.
As part of the emergency response, the IFRC is providing immediate help to strengthen health care systems, where the need is greatest.
Initially, Nestlé said it will work with the IFRC in four ways to provide urgent help for emergency services and caregivers and strengthen healthcare systems.
Nestlé will donate food, medical nutrition products and bottled water to bring relief to those most affected by the pandemic.
It will also deploy available logistics capacities from its out-of-home business to support the needs of the IFRC in various countries.
Nestlé will donate CHF 10m ($10.3m) for immediate deployment in countries where it is most needed.
And the company said it will match 1:1 any donations to the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies or Federation made by its employees.
Mark Schneider, CEO of Nestlé, said, "Now is the time to demonstrate the values of the Nestlé family. I am deeply impressed and humbled by what our team has accomplished in order to support individuals and communities affected by this crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is a global problem and consequently we are offering help on the ground everywhere, drawing on our extensive presence and experience in 187 countries. In addition, we give our full support to those who are fighting tirelessly against the spread of the virus, every day.
“This is where our trusted and longstanding partnership with the IFRC comes in. We applaud the relentless efforts of the millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and admire their determination to make a difference on the ground."
