UGG, With Parent Company Deckers Brands, Launches 'Better Together' And Pledges One Million Dollars For COVID-19 Pandemic Relief Efforts

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., April 8, 2020  /PRNewswire/ -- When facing adversity, the world is stronger, braver and better together. Southern California-based global lifestyle brand UGG®, with parent company Deckers Brands DECK, will launch the Better Together initiative to donate over one million dollars to the COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts, through monetary and product donations. Building on the company's existing philanthropic platform, the COVID-19 response is focused on several initiatives and aims to bring much needed comfort and solace during this unprecedented time.

"Our hearts are with our friends, colleagues, customers and those on the frontlines during this pandemic. The newly launched Better Together initiative aims to deliver relief, support and comfort to those most in need. We are in this together."
- Dave Powers, President & CEO, Deckers Brands

Supporting New York and the Globe

Given the crisis in New York, the brand's passionate consumer base and home to four UGG® retail stores, the brand has committed to donate funds to NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest public healthcare system in the nation who cares for all, regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. In this COVID-19 crisis, their dedicated, compassionate, brave workforce of more than 42,000 employees are on the frontlines caring for New Yorkers in Emergency Rooms, ICUs, community health centers and nursing homes.

Additionally, UGG® has initiated partnerships with select hotels that have opened their rooms to first responders and medical personnel serving on the frontlines. When these courageous healthcare workers return to their rooms after a challenging day, they will now be welcomed with comforting UGG® products, such as luxurious slippers and plush robes.

#UGGTOGETHER Instagram Giveaway to Real-Life Heroes

In this new normal, we are surrounded by extraordinary acts of kindness, love and support to those that need it most. To acknowledge and thank these real-life superheroes, UGG® is launching an Instagram giveback on Apr. 10. Each week for a month, the brand will give 500 pairs of slippers to these individuals, highlighting their stories and providing a small dose of comfort in these uncertain times.

Santa Barbara Local Community

With the local community in mind, Deckers Brands has established the Santa Barbara Better Together Fund at the Santa Barbara Foundation, and pledged to support where Deckers and UGG® have been headquartered for over 47 years. The fund also calls for other community leaders to contribute to small businesses and deliver vital supplies during this time.

Additionally, Deckers Brands has partnered with Santa Barbara-based Sansum Clinic, one of the oldest non-profit outpatient clinics and one of the largest healthcare providers on the south and central coasts of California. Deckers has committed to provide one pair of UGG and one pair of Hoka products to 145 health care workers who are on the frontlines of the Sansum's COVID-19 response.

Deckers Brands and UGG® are united with the world in fighting the spread of COVID-19. The company will continue to monitor new developments related to the virus and through the Better Together initiative focus on the safety, health and wellness of all.

About UGG®
Founded in 1978 by an Australian surfer on the coast of California, UGG® is a global lifestyle brand renowned for its iconic Classic boot. First worn by Hollywood royalty, fashion editors and then the world, UGG® designs and retails footwear, apparel, accessories and homewares with an uncompromising attitude toward quality and craftsmanship. Delivering more than $1 billion in annual sales, UGG® partners with the best retailers globally and owns over 130 concept and outlet stores worldwide in key markets including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing. For more information, please visit www.ugg.com. @ugg @uggmens #UGGTOGETHER

About Deckers Brands
Deckers Brands is a global leader in designing, marketing, and distributing innovative footwear, apparel, and accessories developed for both everyday casual lifestyle use and high-performance activities. The Company's portfolio of brands includes UGG®, Koolaburra®, HOKA ONE ONE®, Teva®, and Sanuk®. Deckers Brands products are sold in more than 50 countries and territories through select department and specialty stores, Company-owned and operated retail stores, and select online stores, including Company-owned websites. Deckers Brands has over 40 years of history building niche footwear brands into lifestyle market leaders attracting millions of loyal consumers globally. For more information, please visit www.deckers.com.

SOURCE UGG; Deckers Brands