In recent months, automakers have stepped forward and contributed to disaster-relief efforts following severe weather events across the U.S.
Early this month, Toyota donated $1 million to the American Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program in what it called a continuation of a decades-long relationship between the automaker and the nonprofit organization. The pre-disaster donation turned out to be a timely effort, as just a few days later the White River in Indiana flooded to levels not seen since 1913, according to the National Weather Service.
Following the severe weather event, Honda donated $500,000 to the same Red Cross program.
Further south, Mississippi felt the effects of Tropical Storm Arthur in June, and to the east West Virginia suffered historic flooding in July. Following the events, Ford Credit and Lincoln Automotive Financial Services offered payment relief to customers affected in those areas.
Payment extensions of up to 60 days were offered to eligible customers in counties that the Federal Emergency Management Agency identified for its Individuals and Households Program, which helps people when insurance doesn’t cover their needs after a disaster.
Outside of the U.S., several automakers, including Toyota and Nissan, have extended their support to those affected by earthquakes in the Philippines and Japan.
Check out our Disaster Relief Guide for practical tips and resources to help prepare your business in the case of a natural disaster.