To say that the images coming out of Moore, Oklahoma are shocking is an understatement. The power and fury of mother nature has once again been unleashed upon a small midwest town. While the disaster is nothing short of astounding, the resilience of these hearty Americans, and the response by those around the country is inspiring.

In the wake of the tragedy what relief organizations really need most is not donations of canned goods, or clothes, but money. That money is put to good use to help victims and their families with their immediate needs, and the hard work of rebuilding their lives after such a tragedy.

For over 30 years, Ford Motor Company has partnered with the Red Cross to provide funds for disaster relief. Ford is an active partner in the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program. That program is one where select companies provide regular donations before any disasters occur. This in turn helps the Red Cross respond immediately after an event such as the devastating EF-5 Tornado in Moore, Oklahoma.

In addition to the money that Ford donates regularly to the Red Cross, the company has pledged additional funds for disaster relief in the wake of this recent disaster. Ford Motor Company will match, up to $250,000 of employee donations to the Red Cross. The Red Cross has established a link for these donations which can be found here. Oklahoma Ford Dealers have also pledged $150,000 to the United Way. Additionally Ford is donating a new Transit Connect van to the Red Cross for use in the disaster relief efforts in Oklahoma, and will be providing $500 in new vehicle purchase assistance to storm victims towards the purchase of a new Ford vehicle.

The devastation and destruction from the Moore, Oklahoma tornado is tragic indeed. Events like these though bring out the best of the American spirit with countless volunteers rushing to help, and still more donating their money or time. It’s nice to see a corporate giant such as Ford step up as well and help so many who lost so much this week. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragic event.