American Honda announced a pledge of $500,000 to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy. The contribution includes both monetary aide as well as Honda-produced portable generators and water pumps. Honda is also establishing a company fund, matching its associates’ personal contributions.

“This giant storm hit many areas particularly hard, and Honda wants to support the many individuals and families devastated by the hurricane’s impact,” said Tetsuo Iwamura, president and chief executive officer of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief operating officer of Honda’s North American region. “As we have in responding to past natural disasters, supporting the Red Cross is an effective way to quickly reach the front lines.” Continue Reading »

Honda and Yamaha announced relief aid for the people of Thailand affected by severe flooding that has swamped large parts of the country since late July.

Yamaha and its Thai subsidiaries are donating a relief package worth about 30 million yen (US$390,000) including 3,000 life jackets. Yamaha is evaluating what items to provide including outboard motors.

Honda and its subsidiaries in Thailand are contributing about 280 million yen (US$3.7 million) in aid. Honda is also donating 200 GX160 boat engines, as well as other items including pumps, high-pressure water sprayers and generators.

[Source: Honda, Yamaha]

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Japan, of course, has contributed much to motorcycling, with the Big Four of Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha, as well as tire manufacturer Bridgestone, helmet companies Arai and Shoei and many other motorcycle industry stalwarts all coming from the Land of the Rising Sun.

Jon Bekefy and Greg Hatton, two motorcycle enthusiasts, industry employees  and above all, humanitarians, have set up a fundraising campaign benefiting the Red Cross for relief efforts in Japan.

If you want to help, please donate at http://www.crowdrise.com/moto4japan.