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United will give air miles for donations to Nepal quake relief

Survivors of Saturday's earthquake wake up Tuesday after sleeping outside over fears of aftershocks in Kathmandu, Nepal. More than 3,700 have died in the quake.

Survivors of Saturday’s earthquake wake up Tuesday after sleeping outside over fears of aftershocks in Kathmandu, Nepal. More than 3,700 have died in the quake.

(Altaf Qadri / Associated Press)
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United Airlines wants you to give to Nepal relief -- and will reward you for doing making a contribution.

The company announced Monday that it will give away up to 5 million air miles to MileagePlus members who donate to help the earthquake-stricken nation, according to a statement. Airlines in the past have given out air miles to motivate customers to give when major disasters occur.

United has become part of a global relief effort to provide food, water, shelter and medical help to Nepal after the 7.8-magnitude quake struck on Saturday. The quake has killed more than 3,700 people, and that number is expected to rise.

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Here’s how United’s bonus air mile plan works:

Donate $50 to $99 to the American Red Cross (it has already raised more than $241,000), Americares, Airlink and Operation USA. and you’ll receive 250 miles. Donate $100 to $249, and 500 miles will be added to your account. Anyone who contributes more than $250 will receive 1,000 miles.

To receive the air miles, you must donate by 9:59 p.m. Pacific time May 15.

In addition, the airline will provide up to $50,000 in matching donations to the organizations.

MileagePlus members may also contribute their existing air miles to organizations including Airlink and the American Red Cross to help relief workers get to Nepal.

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