June 8, 2020
Inspired by a nationwide charity initiative led by some notable names in the business aviation, sports and entertainment worlds, Private Jet Card Comparisons recently donated more than 100,000 meals to Feeding America’s COVID-19 relief effort.
Founder Doug Gollan pledged to donate a percentage of all new subscriptions and renewals to his website for the months of April and May after learning of the partnership between Kenny Dichter, founder and CEO of business aviation lift provider Wheels Up, and Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson to provide food to those who suffered job losses and other hardships from the coronavirus pandemic.
“I saw them announce ‘Meals Up’ on CNBC’s Squawk Box morning show and that led me to do some research,” Gollan explained. “I learned the biggest issue wasn’t necessarily finding the food, but rather getting it from those who had it to food banks and other distribution channels before it spoiled. Our industry has been able help there as well.”
In all, Private Jet Card Comparisons donated 101,000 meals to families in need. Bolstering that effort was what Gollan reported was “the best month we’ve ever had” in May for new subscribers to his company, which compares more than 250 jet card and membership programs as well as on-demand charter, fractional ownership and leasing options.
“A lot of the people I’m speaking with are new to the industry,” he added. “They may have chartered aircraft several years ago, or maybe they’ve flown on a friend’s airplane once or twice, but they’re now seriously exploring travel alternatives due to the current pandemic – and many of them have made purchases.”
With additional help from celebrities and sports figures, the Feeding America relief initiative has provided more than 12 million meals to date. However, Gollan noted that 37 million people currently face hunger in the U.S., including more than 11 million children and nearly 5.4 million seniors, and he encouraged business aviation stakeholders to continue donating to the COVID-19 relief effort at www.feedingamerica.org.
“Each dollar donated helps get 10 meals to those who need them,” he added.