(May 23, 2013) DEARBORN, Mich. — As Oklahoma residents struggle to rebuild their lives after this week's devastating tornadoes, Ford Motor Company and its dealers are donating $400,000 to assist with relief efforts.  Ford also is donating a Ford Transit Connect van to the American Red Cross for relief services and emergency preparedness education.

Ford Motor Company Fund will match donations up to $250,000 from its employees, dealers and the public in support of relief efforts by the American Red Cross.

The Oklahoma Ford Dealers group is contributing $150,000 to the United Way. Also, Ford Motor Company is providing $500 in new vehicle purchase assistance to residents in affected areas whose vehicles were damaged by the tornadoes.

"The impact of these tornadoes is devastating on thousands of families," said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "We know there is great need for assistance, and Ford, its dealers and employees are coming together to provide needed resources. Please join us by donating through the link below."

Donations made through this link will be matched by Ford Motor Company up to $250,000:   http://american.redcross.org/ford-pub.

"Oklahoma Ford dealers encourage everyone to step up to help those impacted by these devastating tornadoes," said Craig Billingsley, chairman of the Oklahoma Ford Dealers. "We know how much this tragedy is impacting our customers, neighbors and friends," he added.

Ford is an active partner in the Red Cross Disaster Responder program. Through this program, a select group of companies pledge donations on an ongoing basis in advance of major disasters, which helps the Red Cross ensure an immediate response to meet the needs of those affected by disasters. Ford has partnered with the American Red Cross for more than 30 years.