Insurer Travelers Companies has announced a $5-million commitment to assist families and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in North America, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, including support for the most financially vulnerable in the communities where Travelers operates.

“Our customers and communities are facing an unprecedented challenge,” said Alan Schnitzer, chairman and CEO of Travelers. “Helping in a crisis is what we do, and the commitments we’re making today to take care of the communities in which we live and work are an extension of the fundamental role we play.”

Pledges funds to charities

As part of the pledge, Travelers will donate $3.5 million to leading charities that provide essential services to address urgent, unmet needs, including emergency assistance for hourly workers, food and shelter for vulnerable populations, stability to small businesses and resources to mitigate disruptions in education.

In addition, up to $1 million will go to pay wages and health benefits for eligible third-party contract employees who provide services at the company’s offices. This will ensure that these individuals, who would have otherwise been laid off, remain employed.

Billing relief offered to those with financial difficulties

Schnitzer said Travelers is also offering billing relief to those facing financial distress because of the pandemic. It has adjusted the claims inspection process to rely more heavily on state-of-the-art digital and virtual tools, with extra precautions in place if an in-person inspection is needed. It is also providing the equipment, supplies and resources its employees need to continue working safely and seamlessly from their homes.