posted 09-06-2005 09:30 PM         

DETROIT — General Motors and the Chrysler Group have raised the bar on relief efforts from Hurricane Katrina.

GM will make available 150 vehicles for the Red Cross to deliver food, medical supplies, volunteers and water in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Those vehicles include full-size SUVs, trucks and vans.

GM's operation in Shreveport, Louisiana, is assisting in the collection of bedding for victims, while OnStar has opened its full range of services to all customers living in areas hit by the storm.

The GM Foundation will provide $50,000 of its initial cash donation of $400,000 toward the establishment of shelters for hurricane refugees.

GM affiliate Isuzu also has announced that it will match employee donations to the American Red Cross.

GMAC is starting to work with customers who are hurricane victims, reviewing their financial matters case by case. DaimlerChrysler Services is providing similar relief to its customers.

The Chrysler Group's philanthropic fund also has committed $500,000 to the relief efforts, while DaimlerChrysler Services has made a $250,000 corporate donation to the Red Cross. Partner Mercedes-Benz has contributed an additional $250,000 to the Red Cross, while the company's Freightliner division has given $100,000.

Mercedes also is converting a training center in the region to a shelter for victims.

What this means to you: These companies should be applauded for their quick responses to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and we anticipate they will increase their relief efforts even further within the coming week.

posted 09-07-2005 12:08 PM         

After speaking to many local dealerships, many have taken chrysler up on their offer.