FOR RELEASE: October 8, 2001
GM Response To National Tragedy (revised 10/4/01)
The September 11, 2001 tragedy in the United States has caused heartache for thousands of families around the world. The GM family is responding in several ways:
- On October 3, GM announced it will contribute $25,000 to the Black America Web Relief Fund. The fund has been set up to directly aid the families affected by the terrorist attacks. Syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner is promoting this effort to eliminate the red tape associated with most relief efforts, and is personally delivering money collected from the fund to families in need of immediate financial help. GM has a long-standing relationship with Tom Joyner, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, and the Tom Joyner Foundation.
- All U.S. GM employees were invited to observe the noontime remembrance on Friday, September 14, 2001, for the victims of the terrorist attacks.
- The GM Foundation is contributing $1,000,000 to the American Red Cross. The Foundation will also match employee contributions dollar-for-dollar from the first dollar contributed. Employees wishing to contribute may do so through GM Global Aid at: http://www.gm.com/company/gmability/philanthropy/global_aid/emp_index.html
- As of September 25, 2001, GM employees have contributed approximately $410,000 through GM Global Aid to the disaster relief efforts.
- The GM Northeast Sales Service and Marketing region is offering the services of over 100 trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles to be used in the disaster recovery efforts.
- General Motors has provided up to 50 Chevrolet Suburbans and GMC Yukon XLs directly to the New York City Fire Department in response to its request following the tragedy.
- There has been an outpouring of volunteers and blood donors throughout the GM family. It is our understanding that the immediate need has been met and, in each case, organizations are already reportedly over their capacity.
- GM employees currently traveling in the U.S. on company business should contact Total Travel Management. GM employees traveling outside the U.S. should contact their local travel coordinators for updates.
- A minute of silence was observed Wednesday, September 12 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. EDT in our GM facilities to show our respect. Operations that were not able to observe a moment of silence at these two times determined a time better suited to their work schedule. Employees at several facilities around the globe had already observed a moment of silence.
- As the Emergency Response Team continues to monitor the situation, security is being enhanced and you may notice this heightened security awareness at your workplace. Your cooperation is appreciated.
The outpouring of support and GM family togetherness is admirable. As we embrace our global family in this trying time, remember that we are a diverse group of people who all bring unique talents to our company. We need to continue our support of each GM family member. As more information is available, updates will be posted on GM Media Online.
