Zurich in North America, a leading property and casualty insurance provider and its U.S. subsidiary Farmers Insurance Group are making this holiday season brighter for people who need a helping hand. Employees from both companies are volunteering their time across the country to help children, the elderly, the homeless and members of the armed forces.

“I am proud of the many ways our Zurich offices from coast to coast have volunteered and given back to the communities where we work and live,” said Mike Foley, CEO of Zurich North America Commercial. “Economically challenging times have not deterred our employees from serving as a Zurich HelpPoint, by helping replenish food pantries, granting children’s wishes, and providing warm clothing for veterans, seniors and families in need. It’s the true spirit of the holiday season.”

A few examples of how Zurich and Farmers employees are giving back include:

* Donating gifts at giving trees in twenty-one locations across the country benefiting various charitable organizations including the Salvation Army Baskets for Elderly program, New York Cares Winter Wishes and Chicago Public Schools;
* Organizing food drives that help the needy in Los Angeles, Charlotte, N.C. and Indianapolis;
* Ensuring children have toys this holiday by working with Toys for Tots in Pittsburgh, a teddy bear drive to benefit the Hollywood (Calif.) Boys & Girls Club, and donating gifts cards to underprivileged kids in New Orleans through the Fore!Kids Foundation.
* Making a $35,000 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York and helping to sponsor wishes for two children; and
* Adopting military families to support those who have loved ones serving overseas this holiday.

“Our employees are a shining example of the true nature of this season by giving their time and money,” said Robert Woudstra, President of Farmers Group Inc. “Farmers and Zurich are fortunate to have dedicated people who are willing to help others who may be less fortunate in life. It’s the selfless giving that makes me proud to be a part of the Zurich family.”