Guatemala (March 10, 2006) – In an event this past week, the First Lady of Guatemala Wendy W. de Berger personally recognized Kraft Foods and Pharmed Group's participation and commitment to the Guatemalan community. In addition, she urged them to disseminate a message of solidarity and cooperation within the corporate sector to benefit those most in need, especially during disaster relief efforts.

Hurricane Stan, one of the strongest storms to hit Central America in the past year, caused floods and avalanches killing more than 1,500 people, in the  Guatemalan departments of Sololá, San Marcos, Suchitepéquez, and Quetzaltenango.

These communities received donations and social services from Kraft Foods, Inc. and Pharmed Group valued at over $60,000, facilitated by the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) with logistical support from HELPS International and the Guatemalan Secretary of Social Works of the President's Wife (SOSEP).

"This has been a valuable opportunity to realize the collaboration between the private and government sectors, with participation from PADF and HELPS International. Both Kraft Foods and Pharmed Group have demonstrated their willingness to help.  We are thankful for their help," said Christine Herridge, Director of Disaster Management at PADF.

Kraft Foods contributed 2,308 cases of food supplies including cookies, cereals, and beverages, which were dispersed among the temporary and single-family shelters. Every child received a food package along with a Christmas present.

Pharmed Group donated medical and surgical equipment, which was distributed among various medical facilities such as the Roosevelt Hospital, National Hospital of Amatitlán, the Ophthalmologic Clinic of Cobán, Hospice San José, and the Cardiovascular Surgery Unit, among others.