Automotive suppliers who generously opened their hearts to aid tsunami victims earlier this year are coming to the aid of states hit by Hurricane Katrina in an effort spearheaded by the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), the largest and oldest trade association of motor vehicle product manufacturers in North America.

"The storm’s damage is still being assessed, but early evidence indicates repairing the storm’s damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure will cost billions of dollars," said Bob McKenna, president and CEO. "The area is home to many industries important to the U.S. economy as a whole and the automotive supplier industry in particular."

McKenna noted many automotive manufacturing facilities and motor vehicle-related industries are located in the area, as well as oil refineries and the vital New Orleans port.

"MEMA members and the motor vehicle product manufacturing industry are stepping forward to help our fellow U.S. citizens with recovery efforts," he noted. "MEMA is beginning the effort by donating $5,000 on behalf of its staff and members in each of its three market segment associations," McKenna said. Contributions to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter. For more information, call 1-800-HELP-NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish).