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Ford Motor Company Gives More Than $200,000 to Midwest Tornado Relief

10 May 1999

Ford Motor Company Gives More Than $200,000 to Midwest Tornado Relief

    DEARBORN, Mich., May 7 -- Ford Motor Company and
its employees will contribute more than $200,000 in cash and in-kind donations
to assist relief efforts for victims of the recent tornadoes that have swept
through communities in the Midwestern United States.
    In addition to financial assistance, company organizations including Ford
Division and its dealers, Lincoln Mercury and its dealers, Ford Credit, Ford
Customer Service Division, Ford Investment Enterprises Corporation (FIECo),
Visteon, Hertz, Ford Motor Company Fund and others are providing community
support.
    "Supporting the tornado relief effort is part of our continuing goal to
better serve our consumers and to give back to the communities where we do
business," said Peter J. Pestillo, vice chairman and chief of staff, Ford
Motor Company.  "Our responsibilities extend far beyond the assembly line.  To
be successful, a company must provide for, and be active in, the communities
in which it operates."
    Ford is working in conjunction with the American Red Cross, the Salvation
Army and other organizations.
    Among relief efforts already under way, FIECo is organizing a drive for
clothing, food and other essential supplies to assist the tornado victims in
Oklahoma City.  Ford Credit is contacting lease and retail loan customers in
the communities affected to offer payment extensions.
    Ford employees and others who are interested in contributing to tornado
relief efforts can contact the American Red Cross (800-HELP-NOW) or the
Salvation Army (800-SAL-ARMY).