Wednesday, 2 April 2025
27.6 C
Singapore
35.5 C
Thailand
27.4 C
Indonesia
27.3 C
Philippines

TikTok donates US$375M in coronavirus aid

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause havoc across the world, TikTok has been one place that a lot of people have been using to respite from their worries. This platform has it all, from viral videos to quarantine-friendly workouts to keep fit. TikTok, currently owned by the Chinese Internet Company, ByteDance, is now taking […]

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause havoc across the world, TikTok has been one place that a lot of people have been using to respite from their worries. This platform has it all, from viral videos to quarantine-friendly workouts to keep fit.

TikTok, currently owned by the Chinese Internet Company, ByteDance, is now taking a step further in this fight against COVID-19 pandemic. In a recent statement that was published on TikTok’s social media page, the president of the company, Alex Zhu, announced that they would be donating US$375 million in the fight against COVID-19.

“The TikTok community is uplifting one another, caring for one another, and lending a hand to one another.” Zhu added, “we want to magnify all we are seeing across our community and translate it into concrete relief for those most affected by this crisis.”

US$250 million of the contribution will go to front-line medical workers, community relief programs, and educational efforts. A total of US$150 million will be used for medical supplies, staffing, and hardship relief for health workers, including a partnership with the CDC Foundation to donate US$15 million for surge staffing within local response efforts.

TikTok said that US$40 million would go to the local organizations that reflect the users of the TikTok platform, which include nurses, musicians, artists, families, and educators.

This donation is to be used across the world, but it will be primarily given to local organizations, including MusicCares and After-School All-Stars in the States, a statement from a TikTok spokesperson revealed.

“In an emergency, speed saves lives, and we are extremely grateful to TikTok for stepping forward to support surge staffing that is needed to meet rapidly emerging demands identified by state and local health departments,” the CEO and president of CDC Foundation, Judy Monroe said, according to a ย statement.

The company will also allocate an additional US$10 million for matching TikTok user donations, plus another US$50 million that will be used to support the “TikTok Creative Learning Fund,” through grants to professional experts, educators, and non-profits focused on distance learning.

Additionally, the company will donate US$100 million in ad credits to medium-sized and small businesses “to help companies get on their feet once economies are able to restart normal activities,” Zhuโ€™s statement stated.

However, this donation is pending a decision from health authorities on when normal business operations will restart, which means the program will most probably roll out in the coming months.

Hot this week

OpenAI pauses free GPT-4o image generation after viral Studio Ghibli trend

OpenAI halts free GPT-4o image generation after viral Studio Ghibli trend raises legal concerns, leaving paid users with continued access.

Global tech leaders to explore the future of enterprise at ATxEnterprise 2025

ATxEnterprise 2025 in Singapore will bring together global leaders to explore AI, cybersecurity, and the future of enterprise technology.

Xbox titles lead PlayStation Store preorders

Xbox games dominate PS5 preorders, with Indiana Jones and Forza Horizon 5 leading sales, proving Microsoft's strategy works.

Android Auto beta now supports full-screen gaming

Android Autoโ€™s latest beta introduces full-screen gaming, allowing you to play Candy Crush Soda Saga and Angry Birds 2 while parked.

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro review: A mid-range marvel with standout zoom

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro blends standout design, powerful zoom camera, and smart features, making it a top choice in the mid-range segment.

Zelle is removing its stand-alone app

Zelle is shutting down its stand-alone app, but you can still use the service through your bankโ€™s app. Hereโ€™s what you need to know.

Apple may launch an AI-powered Health app with a coaching feature next year

Apple may introduce an AI-powered Health app with coaching, food tracking, and fitness guidance in 2026, possibly as a new subscription service.

These robot vacuums are getting smarter with Apple Home support

Appleโ€™s iOS 18.4 update adds Matter support for robot vacuums, enabling control via Apple Home. Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs are updating their devices.

Gmail introduces easier encryption for business emails

Google introduces a new encryption model for Gmail, making it easier for businesses to send secure emails without special software or certificates.

Related Articles