"We are looking at ways to use every possible resource to reach out to our Ford family as well as the countless others who have been left homeless in the wake of Hurricane Katrina," said Jim Bright, executive director, Ford Volunteer Corps.

The American Red Cross is making an urgent appeal for cash and blood donations. They are not set up to handle food, equipment or other types of contributions. Ford employees were e-mailed earlier this week and asked to make an appointment to give blood. Anyone wishing to make a cash donation may do so online at https://www.redcross.org/donate/MMRedir.ASP?CID=HUR-Ford.

Ford is partnering with the Red Cross and will match employee contributions to its disaster relief fund. UAW/Ford has donated $100,000 to the Red Cross and is urging its members to support the employee match program.

Ford Motor Credit Company has increased its payment deferral offer to customers affected by Hurricane Katrina. Customers may now defer up to three vehicle payments; previously two payment deferrals were offered.

"We have already heard from many customers who are interested in the Disaster Relief Program. We know there are others who need help and we are trying to get the word out to everyone," said A. J. Wagner, president of Ford Motor Credit North America. "Our hearts go out to our employees, our customers and to our dealers and their employees who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy."

Under the Disaster Relief Program, Ford Credit customers have the opportunity to defer these monthly payments without paying extension fees. The program is open to customers living in counties that FEMA has declared federal disaster areas as a result of the storm.

Customers must register within 60 days to qualify. Deferred payments are due at the end of the contract term. Customers may register by calling Ford Credit toll-free at 1-800-723-4016.

Ford and Lincoln Mercury have established a Disaster Relief Program, which would enable some customers to receive a $750 discount on replacement vehicles.

It's being estimated that it will be at least four to six weeks before power is restored to New Orleans. Forty-two dealerships in the region are closed, and it appears that 20 have undergone severe damage and may remain closed for some time. Steve Lyons, group vice president, North America Marketing, Sales and Service, has scheduled a regional dealer meeting in Memphis next week.