..:: AUTO REPORT AFRICA ::..
Related Articles
Toyota on Wednesday announced a combined $3 million boost to efforts aimed at providing relief to people affected by ravaging Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas, United States of America.
Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), which made the announcement in a statement issued in Plano, Texas said it is partnering with Toyota Financial Services (TFS), The Friedkin Group, Gulf States Toyota (GST) and Toyota and Lexus dealers across the U.S., to provide a combined relief effort of over $3 million to serve the people impacted by Hurricane Harvey.
The group’s relief efforts, according to the statement, include funds to organisations such as the St. Bernard Project and American Red Cross, matching contributions, in-kind donations, volunteerism, and the donation of pre-owned vehicles.
“As fellow Texans, our hearts go out to those who have lost so much and we would like to extend a helping hand to help with the recovery,” the statement quoted Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America, as saying. “At Toyota, we have a comprehensive approach to disaster relief, working with numerous organisations to provide help where it’s needed.”
The statement added that Dan Friedkin, chairman of GST, has established the Friedkin Disaster Relief Fund and has guaranteed at least $1 million in funding from the Friedkin Family. It stressed that the Friedkin Group and GST will support Toyota and Lexus dealers, their associates as well as individuals across the region recovering from the hurricane.
“Many people’s lives will never be the same after Hurricane Harvey and the recovery process will require as much assistance as possible,” said Friedkin. “This community is our home, and it’s important for us to do whatever possible to ensure that our associates, dealers and anyone impacted by the storm have the support and resources to bounce back during this difficult time.”
TFS and Lexus Financial Services (LFS) also announced the donation of pre-owned Toyota and Lexus cars, SUVs, and trucks to organisations involved in helping move people and property in the recovery efforts.
“Access to reliable means of transportation is a critical element to any disaster relief and recovery effort,” said Mike Groff, president and CEO of Toyota Financial Services. “We hope that our donated vehicles will help meet the needs of those affected by Hurricane Harvey.”
Toyota said it is also working in a variety of ways to reach the greatest number of people affected by the devastating storm.
