By Karen Robes Meeks
Last year, more than 800 charity groups and endeavors received over $3.7 million in funds and in-kind support from Honolulu-based Matson Inc., including $1.765 million to 435 groups in Hawaii, $1.06 million to 68 groups in Alaska, $575,000 to 247 mainland United States organizations and more than $310,000 to 109 organizations in Guam, Micronesia and South Pacific islands.
Notable donations included $160,000 to United Way chapters in Hawaii, $100,000 to the Bishop Museum's programs and collections; $40,000 to the American Red Cross – Hawaii Chapter for its Centennial; and $23,000 to the Hawaii State Department of Education for its Beginning Teacher Summer Academies.
Matson also donated $46,000 to the Navy League of the United States; $37,000 to the American Heart Association, and $26,000 to the Coast Guard Foundation.
"One of our core values at Matson is contributing positively to the communities in which we work and live. It's not a slogan; we try to live our values and last year, I'm proud to say on behalf of all Matson employees, we contributed more than ever," said Matson chairman and CEO Matt Cox.
