San Francisco (AFP)
Apple has pledged $ 2.5 billion over the next two years to help solve the housing crisis in California.
The iPhone manufacturer's offer comes in the wake of similar - but less generous - initiatives by Facebook or Google, each pledging $ 1 billion.
"Before the world ever heard of Silicon Valley, and long before we could put the tech in our pocket, this region was the cradle of Apple and we feel a strong civic duty to make sure that it stays alive and that people can continue to live there, start a family and contribute to the community, "said company CEO Tim Cook, in a statement.
Apple said some 30,000 people left San Francisco between April and June 2019 for lack of affordable housing. The remunerations distributed by tech giants are often pointed to as one of the sources of California's housing crisis.
The Apple brand is planning to favor "community members such as teachers, firefighters, emergency services and other service sector workers" who can not afford to live in a city where rent prices are high. explodes.
Apple said it is working with state governor Gavin Newsom on several programs to tackle the housing and homelessness crisis.
The $ 2.5 billion will be split between the California Affordable Housing Fund ($ 1 billion plus additional funding), San Jose land ($ 300 million to build houses), new housing for households low income in the region (200 million), or the NGO "Destination: Home" which helps the homeless (50 million).
"We have worked with experts to put together a plan that addresses the challenges of this crisis on all fronts, from critical new housing needs to support for new families, to charities to help those who are the most vulnerable. more in danger, "said Lisa Jackson, Apple's vice president of environment and social initiatives.
© 2019 AFP