As the situation is getting worse in Japan following the devastating earthquake, tsunami and then several nuclear reactor explosions, car makers one after another are joining the international efforts to help the victims.
Japanese car maker Mazda was one of the firsts to step in. The Board of Directors of the Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc., has unanimously approved a donation of $150,000.00 to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief Fund.
“Mazda and its U.S. employees are deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of its Japanese colleagues, suppliers, employees and their families in the affected region of Japan,” said Mazda Foundation Chairman Jim O’Sullivan. “We extend our thoughts and prayers to the people of Japan as they recover from this terrible tragedy.”
BMW too donated a total of 1 Million Euro emergency aid to the international non-profit organization “Save the Children” and the Japanese Red Cross. Funds are earmarked for the treatment of traumatized children, emergency aid and reconstruction work. Additionally BMW Group employees can show their solidarity with the victims of the disaster by contributing to both these campaigns.
The company’s Board of Management expressed their shock at the tragedy unfolding in Japan. “We are deeply moved by the horrific suffering in the affected regions,” stated Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “During this difficult time, our thoughts and sympathies are with the Japanese people.”
BMW and Volkswagen have also provided help for their employees in Japan to return home safely.
UPDATE 1– Hyundai just announced the Korean company will donate 100 million yen (approximately US$1.3 million) to the Korean Red Cross and delivered to the Japanese Red Cross to purchase immediate needs like blankets, food, and water.
UPDATE 2– Renault joins the party as well! The French company has now set up a special fund and will donate €500,000. Its employees will also be invited to donate and their contributions will be matched by the company. All the money raised will be handed over to the Red Cross, a charity with whom Renault is a partner.
Keep’em coming!
picture: Red Cross
