DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. — In response to the devastation caused by the Dec. 26, 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, JM Family Enterprises Inc., subsidiary Southeast Toyota Distributors LLC, and Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. have announced a $500,000 donation to the American Red Cross for relief efforts.

The donation is part of a larger global contribution by Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Toyota Motor North America and other Toyota affiliates worldwide in support of both the American Red Cross and UNICEF. In total, contributions to these two organizations from all Toyota sources will likely exceed $4.5 million.

"It’s heartbreaking to all to see the tragic effect of tsunami on so many lives throughout Southeast Asia," said Jim Moran, founder and honorary chairman of JM Family Enterprises. "Our immediate concern is to get the help (medical assistance, food, water and shelter) to the survivors. We at JM Family can help get these distressed people back on their feet by donating cash to reliable organizations."

According to Pat Moran, chairman of JMFE and its subsidiary, SET, offering disaster aid was an immediate response, especially after watching the 36-year-old family business and thousands of its associates and their families endure a record-setting four hurricanes just four months ago. That crisis prompted a $1.5 million donation for relief by JM Family and Toyota companies.

"It is impossible for us here to imagine the total destruction of life and property that has occurred on the other side of the world and how those people are suffering,” said Pat Moran. "We offer them our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers and hope that our donation will provide lifesaving help for immediate and long term needs."

JM Family associates have also made personal contributions to various not-for-profit organizations for tsunami relief.