100 Dodge trucks will be donated to State and Local Government agencies engaged in relief efforts along the Gulf Coast. 
 
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going” is more than just a phrase to the Chrysler Group and its philanthropic arm, the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund. Although the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina could aptly be described as more than “tough,” Chrysler Group will answer the call with a donation of 100 of its most powerful and capable vehicles — the Dodge Ram, Durango and Dakota — to help those in need.

"DaimlerChrysler has a tradition of making a difference in communities that have been damaged due to tragedy,” said Frank Fountain, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President – External Affairs and Public Policy, and President of the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund. "We are now identifying ways to utilize our Dodge trucks to go beyond the grounds of disaster areas and help rebuild neighborhoods and communities. Through this effort, we want to help ensure that the needs of the less fortunate are not forgotten.”
 
The 100 Dodge trucks will form a traveling convoy and depart Tuesday, Sept. 13 from St. Louis. The vehicle procession will consist of 10 Dodge Dakotas, 10 Dodge Durangos and 80 Dodge Rams. The Dodge trucks will be donated to governmental agencies along the Gulf Coast. Mississippi will receive 50 of the trucks, Louisiana 40, and 10 will be disbursed to Alabama. The 20 vehicles leading the caravan will be filled with needed aid items, including non-perishable food, water and tools, and delivered to local relief agencies.

“The support from DaimlerChrysler employees, retirees and dealers has been overwhelming,” said Fountain. “Our Dodge truck donation allows DaimlerChrysler to continue to make a lasting difference to the Gulf Coast communities and to lend a hand as a good neighbor and good citizen.”