Honda Sets Up Donation Website

One of the car makers that have been affected by the earthquake and tsunami that have struck Japan nearly two weeks ago, has decided to announce an unprecedented move, meant to increase the rate at which aid is arriving in Japan and give more people the opportunity to lend a hand.

Honda has set up a special website, which can be accessed by following this link, where people Honda calls friends (customers, suppliers and others) can channel donations to the American Red Cross. The website has been operational for some time now, but it has been initially launched as a donation hub for Honda and Acura automobile dealers alone.

"We are making this special website available for contributions based on the outpouring of support and messages of sympathy and concern we have received from so many friends of Honda," said Stephan Morikawa, assistant vice president of Corporate Community Relations at American Honda.

"We are humbled and deeply appreciative of the concern shown for our Japanese associates, their families, and all those affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami."

The coordinated effort is being supported by the Japanese auto maker with the $3.7 million already approved to be sent to Japan by the company. Material support, which includes 1,000 generators, has also been announced.

Honda's operations in Japan are beginning to recover, as it has been hit less than its compatriots Nissan and Toyota. Yet, the launch of at least one model, the Honda Hit Shuttle, has been delayed because of the devastation that has hit Japan on March 11.