MSC FOUNDATION
"We all have the duty to leave a better world for future generations"
Capt. Gianluigi Aponte - Chair of the MSC Foundation Board
WHAT
inspires US
Together, WE HAVE MADE THIS POSSIBLE
WHAT WE
Focus ON
University of Miami, Nova Southeastern University, University of The Bahamas, BAMSI, Perry Institute for Marine Science
In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian devastated communities in The Bahamas.
The MSC Foundation delivered 146 containers of humanitarian relief and transported over 250 containers free or at reduced cost.
Later, 20 home-containers were provided to families in Sweeting Cay, helping 65,100 people access emergency aid and temporary shelter.
This coordinated response highlights the Foundation’s dedication to supporting those in need during extreme weather events.
In March 2019, Cyclone Idai struck southern Africa, one of the most devastating natural disasters in decades.
The MSC Foundation supported UNICEF by providing the transport of four 40-foot containers filled with emergency relief supplies to Malawi, ensuring that more than 22,000 people affected by the cyclone received urgent life-saving aid.
This effort reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to respond swiftly to natural disasters and support communities in rebuilding their lives.
Following the August 2020 Beirut Port explosion, the MSC Foundation provided a multi-faceted response.
Containers were loaned to the Port Authority for offices and storage, medical equipment was donated to the Lebanese Red Cross, and free transport was provided for 930 crates of relief items to Xpatria, including clothes, school, and hygiene supplies.
This effort reached 3,650 people and demonstrates the Foundation’s commitment to swift and coordinated disaster support.
Between 3 and 17 November 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota swept across Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.
The MSC Foundation provided family hygiene and recovery kits while loaning 50 containers in Puerto Cortés as semi-permanent housing for 107 families. Altogether, 3,192 people received immediate relief and shelter.
This effort reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Between 3 and 17 November 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota swept across Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.
The MSC Foundation provided family hygiene and recovery kits while loaning 50 containers in Puerto Cortés as semi-permanent housing for 107 families. Altogether, 3,192 people received immediate relief and shelter.
This effort reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Between 3 and 17 November 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota swept across Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.
The MSC Foundation provided family hygiene and recovery kits while loaning 50 containers in Puerto Cortés as semi-permanent housing for 107 families. Altogether, 3,192 people received immediate relief and shelter.
This effort reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities in the aftermath of natural disasters.
In April 2021, after the La Soufrière volcano in the island of Saint Vincent erupted, the MSC Foundation delivered a 40-foot container of relief supplies.
These included water, generators, mattresses, tents, thermal blankets, hygiene kits, and respirators.
This support reached 2,500 people.
Following the August 2021 Haiti earthquake, the MSC Foundation provided containers as provisional shelters, transported relief items, coordinating with World Vision, Food for the Poor and the Miami Port Authority.
Over 8,148 people received assistance to rebuild homes and access essential items, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to helping communities recover from natural disasters.
Following the 2021 Haiti earthquake, the MSC Foundation donated to our long-standing partner UNICEF eight containers for community spaces and warehouses for relief items, supporting 6,000 people as they continued rebuilding their lives.
This initiative highlights the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to long-term recovery efforts.
During the August 2021 wildfires in Greece, the MSC Foundation provided ICT kits including digital radios to help fire-workers respond effectively.
This support reached 500 individuals and demonstrates the Foundation’s commitment to assisting emergency responders during natural disasters.
In April 2022, severe floods hit KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The MSC Foundation responded with cash and in-kind donations including food parcels, blankets, and other essentials, distributed through Gift of the Givers. This support reached 2,100 people and reflects the Foundation’s dedication to assisting communities affected by natural disasters.
Between August and October 2022, massive floods impacted communities across Pakistan.
The MSC Foundation transported second-hand clothes from Switzerland to support those affected, reaching 1,600 people.
Following Cyclone Freddy, the MSC Foundation joined hands with UNHCR Switzerland, the Primary School Headmasters of Muchungo & Pomene and MSC South Africa to transport four containers with tents to Malawi and to reconstruct schools, including two new classrooms in Mozambique.
Altogether, 7,270 people benefited, of whom many were children.
In May 2024, devastating floods hit Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, straining hospitals and leaving vulnerable people without adequate medical support.
In response, the MSC Foundation donated life-saving ventilators to a local hospital, ensuring that patients could receive critical care during the emergency.
This operation demonstrated the Foundation’s flexibility in responding to the most pressing needs, with a focus on preserving lives and supporting health systems under immense pressure.
The MSC Foundation contributed to response and early recovery, partnering with local organisations to provide critical aid.
The Thai Red Cross Society helped deliver essential goods and medical supplies to 3,500 flood-affected individuals in Thailand.
In Myanmar, 4,624 people received emergency aid through Community Partners International and the Myanmar Red Cross Society.
In Vietnam, we supported livelihood recovery by distributing seedlings, livestock, and equipment and repairing and constructing new classrooms and schools, benefiting 2,100 students and families.
The MSC Foundation contributed to response and early recovery, partnering with local organisations to provide critical aid.
The Thai Red Cross Society helped deliver essential goods and medical supplies to 3,500 flood-affected individuals in Thailand.
In Myanmar, 4,624 people received emergency aid through Community Partners International and the Myanmar Red Cross Society.
In Vietnam, we supported livelihood recovery by distributing seedlings, livestock, and equipment and repairing and constructing new classrooms and schools, benefiting 2,100 students and families.
The MSC Foundation contributed to response and early recovery, partnering with local organisations to provide critical aid.
The Thai Red Cross Society helped deliver essential goods and medical supplies to 3,500 flood-affected individuals in Thailand.
In Myanmar, 4,624 people received emergency aid through Community Partners International and the Myanmar Red Cross Society.
In Vietnam, we supported livelihood recovery by distributing seedlings, livestock, and equipment and repairing and constructing new classrooms and schools, benefiting 2,100 students and families.
The first response is supporting flood relief in Chad, where, according to the UN, more than 10,000 homes were destroyed, and at least 400,000 people were forced to flee their homes across the country.
This partnership strengthens UNHCR’s capacity to assist the displaced and highlights the essential role of private-sector collaboration in responding to climate-driven humanitarian crises.
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, we have been supporting the humanitarian efforts of the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) by donating logistics and transportation services for containers carrying essential items to Ukraine and neighbouring countries.
In 2022, we donated 130,000 items of emergency aid (including solar lamps, sleeping bags, folding beds, and thermal blankets) transported in 30 containers. Additionally, we provided free transport for 36 containers from their warehouses around the world to Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, and Poland. In 2023, we provided assistance to internally displaced persons, and supported a new project for the reconstruction of water systems in communities that have remained or returned to the country.
Between 2022 and 2024, this emergency operation reached 1,102,496 people with humanitarian aid.
The MSC Foundation and MSC Group responded swiftly to the emergency by mobilising their technical, human, logistic and financial resources to provide emergency assistance to the thousands affected by the earthquake.
This assistance included direct aid, accommodation for the displaced, free container transportation of emergency supplies, and support for two local assistance projects funded through a global fundraising campaign led by the MSC Foundation.
As a result, over 350,000 people received emergency aid, 430,000 relief items were transported free of charge in 101 containers, and 1,000 people were accommodated for three months on board MSC Aurelia.
The MSC Foundation and MSC Group responded swiftly to the emergency by mobilising their technical, human, logistic and financial resources to provide emergency assistance to the thousands affected by the earthquake.
This assistance included direct aid, accommodation for the displaced, free container transportation of emergency supplies, and support for two local assistance projects funded through a global fundraising campaign led by the MSC Foundation.
As a result, over 350,000 people received emergency aid, 430,000 relief items were transported free of charge in 101 containers, and 1,000 people were accommodated for three months on board MSC Aurelia.
This initiative has directly benefited 4,256 people, with 1,153 meters of pipeline rehabilitated and a new water tower constructed to ensure long-term water access.
By addressing urgent infrastructure needs, the Foundation played a key role in rebuilding essential services and improving daily life for those impacted.
In collaboration with the Complutense University of Madrid, and together with MSC Cruises, the Foundation launched a five-year university prize in memory of Emiliano González in 2021.
This annual award consists of a cash award and a six-month internship at MSC Cruises’ European offices, offering students both recognition and practical experience. It honours the passion and dedication that Emiliano González demonstrated throughout his 18 years at MSC Cruises, where his leadership helped shape the company’s growth in Spain and left a lasting mark on the tourism industry.
Above all, the prize is a heartfelt tribute to his commitment to mentorship and the professional development of future generations.
In collaboration with the Somnang Association and co-financed by MSC Cambodia, the Foundation launched a four-year commitment to support the day centre in Phnom Penh.
In its first year, the centre welcomed 40 children, offering them a safe and caring environment outside school hours. Here, they receive nutritious meals, practise personal hygiene, rest, and engage in educational and creative activities with the guidance of volunteers.
This initiative not only ensures the children’s immediate well-being but also lays the groundwork for sustained improvements in their academic development and overall quality of life.
Significant progress was made, including three laboratories for coral and sea urchin reproduction and the country’s first coral DNA extraction.
The centre will house administrative offices, co-working spaces, intern accommodations, and conservation-focused green areas.
The Foundation supported humanitarian relief for refugees in Tyre, Lebanon, by facilitating the transport of essential items from Italy.
The initiative provided critical aid to Syrian families living in vulnerable conditions, offering them practical support during a period of instability and hardship.
By strengthening the capacity of local partners to respond quickly and effectively, the project contributed to easing the daily struggles of displaced people. It also underscores the Foundation’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and to supporting communities affected by conflict and crisis.
The Foundation supported Il Mare a Scuola, a national campaign led by Marevivo to promote a “culture of the sea” among schoolchildren in Italy.
The initiative engaged students through classroom activities and hands-on experiences aboard the motor yacht Patrizia, allowing them to discover marine ecosystems directly.
By linking education with the Salvamare Law, the campaign reinforced the importance of environmental protection and sustainable practices from an early age. It also fostered curiosity, responsibility, and respect for the marine environment, inspiring future generations to safeguard the sea and inland waters.
The Foundation supported Green Ivory in Côte d’Ivoire, a project dedicated to addressing plastic pollution in Grand Bassam.
The initiative provided storage solutions for collected plastic waste, facilitating its safe management and recycling.
By enabling cleaner and healthier public spaces, the project contributes to environmental protection while promoting awareness of sustainable practices within the community. It also highlights the importance of local engagement in tackling global challenges and reflects the Foundation’s broader commitment to environmental conservation and circular economy solutions.
The Foundation supported Operation Payot – Read & Share in Niger, an initiative that delivered books, school furniture, clothing, and toys to underserved communities.
The containers used in the project were converted into libraries, creating lasting educational spaces for children and families.
By expanding access to learning resources, the initiative benefited thousands of young people while fostering literacy, curiosity, and opportunity. It also demonstrated the power of collaboration between institutions and civil society in building brighter futures through education and community engagement.
The Foundation supported Il Terzo Mondo ODV in Cameroon by facilitating the transport of medical items for the renovation of a local hospital.
The initiative improved the facility’s capacity to serve patients by ensuring access to essential equipment and supplies.
By strengthening healthcare delivery, the project contributed to better treatment outcomes and reinforced the resilience of the community. It also reflects the Foundation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable regions with practical assistance that enhances well-being and promotes equitable access to healthcare services.
Maximilian Reinelt Centre
The Foundation supported the Maximilian Reinelt Centre in Lomé, Togo, by facilitating the transport of medical equipment and supplies to serve people living in highly vulnerable conditions.
The initiative strengthened the centre’s ability to provide care and assistance in one of the country’s most disadvantaged regions.
By expanding access to essential resources, the project improved health services, enhanced resilience, and promoted well-being for the local population.
Sea Turtle Conservancy
The Soropta Hatchery Project aims to protect Leatherback and other sea turtle species from extinction by safeguarding nests from poachers, addressing the threats of sea level rise and mitigating habitat destruction.
Beyond conservation, the project is strengthening the capacities of key government and civil society stakeholders.
Through comprehensive training and skills development, local communities are gaining an understanding of sea turtle conservation, habitat protection, and sustainable practices, empowering them to take conservation action.
Khuon Foundation
The Foundation supported the St. Marcellin Children’s Village in Zimbabwe, which provides care and shelter for hundreds of children who have lost their families or face highly vulnerable circumstances.
With the support of the Khuon Foundation, the initiative delivered first aid supplies and educational materials to enhance both health and learning conditions for the children.
By improving access to essential resources, the project contributed to their safety, development, and well-being. It also underlined the importance of international solidarity in offering hope, dignity, and opportunities to young people in need.
Ecology Project International
The MSC Foundation, co-financed with MSC and Medlog Costa Rica, supported Together for the Turtles, an initiative led by EPI Costa Rica. The programme equips students from underprivileged schools with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges affecting their communities and marine ecosystems. It combines a field visit to Pacuare Reserve – a vital nesting site for leatherback turtles in Limón province – with a mentoring process where students design projects guided by MSC and Medlog professionals.
Employees from MSC and Medlog offices across Latin America actively contribute as mentors and assessors, ensuring close engagement in the learning journey. By 2024, 304 students had benefitted, gaining inspiration and practical tools to become active stewards of sustainability.
Sri Lanka Ministry of Health
The Foundation supported the Sri Lanka Ministry of Health by donating the transportation of hospital equipment from Toronto to Colombo.
The delivery included intensive care unit beds to be used across Sri Lankan medical facilities, strengthening the country’s ability to respond to urgent healthcare needs.
By facilitating the arrival of vital medical equipment, the initiative contributed to improving hospital infrastructure, patient care, and treatment capacity. This support reflects the Foundation’s commitment to addressing health challenges worldwide and to helping communities strengthen resilience through access to essential resources.
UN Tourism
In 2022, the Foundation partnered with UN Tourism to support the Global Youth Tourism Summit in Sorrento, which gathered 130 young delegates from more than 60 countries.
Over several days, participants engaged with UN and government officials, tourism industry leaders, experts, and public figures to explore the future of sustainable tourism.
The summit concluded with the launch of the Sorrento Call to Action, a declaration empowering young people to play an active role in shaping tourism as a driver of sustainable and inclusive development. The initiative inspired a new generation to champion approaches that place people, the planet, and shared prosperity at the centre of tourism.
Association Isabelle Chevalley
Roparun Foundation
The Foundation supported the Roparun Foundation, which raises funds to improve the quality of life of people with cancer by financing initiatives focused on palliative care.
The donation provided essential infrastructure for the organisation, enabling it to strengthen its activities and enhance support to institutions and patients.
Through its work, the foundation not only helps to provide medical and psychological care, but also brings dignity and comfort to those facing the final stages of illness. This initiative underscores the value of solidarity in supporting patients and their families.
World Food Programme
The Foundation supported the World Food Programme in El Salvador through the donation of containers for its Kitchen-in-a-Box initiative, which provides safe and fully equipped kitchens to strengthen school meal programmes. By 2023, these kitchens were in operation, serving 42,944 meals to 3,131 students.
The initiative ensures that children receive nutritious meals in a safe environment, improving their health, concentration, and ability to learn.
Antsirabe City Hall
The Foundation supported the establishment of the first fire and rescue unit in Antsirabe, Madagascar, by providing the transportation of essential vehicles and equipment from France.
The delivery included firefighting trucks, an ambulance, rescue tools, and protective gear, enabling the city to set up a modern emergency response service.
This initiative significantly improved local capacity to respond to fires, accidents, and health emergencies, safeguarding lives and property. It also strengthened resilience in a community where access to critical emergency infrastructure had previously been very limited.
Liceo Jubilar
The Foundation supported Liceo Jubilar in Montevideo, Uruguay, a secondary school dedicated to providing quality education and opportunities to teenagers from highly vulnerable backgrounds.
Through the donation of a container, the school was able to expand its facilities and create additional space for learning and student activities. The initiative directly benefits 400 students, offering them a safe and supportive environment where they can focus on their studies, grow in confidence, and build brighter futures.
By strengthening access to education, the project also reinforces the school’s vital role in fostering inclusion and community development.
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ANNUAL
Report 2025
