Defender is an indisputably legendary name in the world of off-roading, with a history that stretches back decades. Much of that history has been inextricably linked with the British Red Cross, as the partnership between the organization and Defender is one of the world’s longest‑standing humanitarian charity partnerships. Defender has announced today that the partnership will extend until 2029, at which point it will celebrate its 75th anniversary.
Supporting disaster- and emergency-affected areas and communities, the partnership between Defender and the British Red Cross traces back to the first Series Land Rovers, as a Series I Land Rover was modified to be deployed by the British Red Cross in Dubai in 1954. Today, Defender 110 and Defender 130 examples are specially made to serve people who are difficult to reach.
Specifically, the modification is called the NGO Specification of the Defender 110 and 130, and it was developed in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Equipped with Driver Assist and both the standard and advanced Off-Road packs, they are made to make serving communities in hard-to-reach locations as effortless as possible. The partnership extends beyond the vehicles, as Defender also plans to provide funding to the British Red Cross for volunteer and health worker training, infrastructure projects, assistance and education efforts, and more across the globe.
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About the extended partnership, Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, commented, “Defender has stood with the British Red Cross for more than 70 years and this renewed commitment underlines our support for them and the wider Red Cross and Red Crescent movement and the communities they support. It’s clear the need for their service has never been greater. As the world grapples with climate change, conflict and economic instability, the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement remains a constant, acting with neutrality and kindness for all who face crisis.”
The British Red Cross Disaster Relief Alliance retains Defender as a founding member, with enhanced contributions going towards its mission of proactive investment. Through the Disaster Relief Alliance, the British Red Cross enhances its preparedness and can respond more quickly and effectively to emergencies. With a new chapter opening for the legendary partnership between Defender and the British Red Cross, the brand expects to help 100,000 people directly with the new phase of the collaboration, with help coming from its own workforce to raise funds and do other work to save lives and communities.
The most recent portfolio of projects supported 134,196 people, while employee giving raised 180,600 British pounds, and 560 colleagues were trained in first aid. Extending the partnership until 2029, Defender has cemented 75 years of one of the most meaningful and iconic humanitarian charity partnerships in the automotive world.
Image Source: JLR
