Bridgestone North America Divisions Donate to US Flood Relief

Since June the US state of Iowa has experienced its worst flooding in 15 years, with rivers throughout the state bursting their banks. To assist affected communities, Firestone Agricultural Tire, itself based in Des Moines, Iowa, BFS Retail & Commercial Operations and Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions have donated US$100,000 to the American Red Cross’ flood relief efforts. The company says the donation, presented in a ceremony on July 18, reflects the combined efforts of Bridgestone Americas Holding and the three aforementioned business units.

“We are always looking for opportunities to give back to the communities where we live and work,” said Ken Allen, vice president, FSAG. “It is rewarding to see how dramatically the quality of life can improve for families with the aid given from the Red Cross. The American Red Cross continues to provide invaluable assistance to those affected by the storms, funded by many who felt as we do about their good work, and we are happy that we were able to help support those efforts.”

Since the flooding began, the American Red Cross has been operating shelters in the area where hundreds of residents have taken refuge. To date, the American Red Cross has sheltered more than 1200 people, assisted more than 7000 families and served nearly 800,000 snacks and meals.

“We are extremely pleased that so many organisations like Bridgestone Firestone are stepping up to help in our Iowa communities,” commented Jodi Warth, chief development officer for the American Red Cross, Central Iowa Chapter. “Iowa families are getting back on their feet and continuing on with life, but there is still so much work to be done. We count on generous donations, like this one, to carry out our humanitarian mission to help those suffering losses after a disaster strikes.”