AAA Texas Helps American Red Cross Provide Relief to Victims of Tropical Storm Allison; Donation Program Allows Community to Support Disaster Victims.

News/Assignment Editors & Automotive Writers

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 19, 2001

AAA Texas is helping the American Red Cross increase its relief efforts for the victims of Tropical Storm Allison by initiating a donation program in all of its 21 district offices throughout Texas.

Simply become a AAA Texas member and the organization will donate $25.00 in an individual/family's name to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Existing members can also help. If you are already a member and you add an associate member or upgrade your membership to AAA Plus, AAA Texas will donate $25.00 in your name.

"This new donation program is an excellent way to help the American Red Cross increase its financial assistance to those devastated by Tropical Storm Allison. The community gets to enjoy the many benefits of a AAA Texas membership and also help their neighbor in time of crisis," said Mark Bell, managing director of AAA Texas.

Tropical Storm Allison proved to be the most expensive tropical storm in U.S. history as it swept across the Gulf of Mexico devastating more than 30,000 families in its path. The American Red Cross estimates the cost of providing its relief services and support will be more than $25 million within the Greater Houston area alone.

John W. McDivitt, CEO of the Greater Houston Area Chapter, commented, "We are grateful for the support of AAA, one of the companies, like the American Red Cross, that Americans know they can rely on. It only makes sense that we are partners in helping people following a disaster."

To become a AAA Texas member or to add a dependent family member to your membership and help the victims of Tropical Storm Allison and other disasters, please call AAA Texas at 800/765-0766. Please indicate that you would like to sign-up to assist the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

For more information, visit: www.aaa-texas.com/redcross .

The Red Cross responds to more than 67,000 disasters each year, one every eight minutes, around the clock, 365 days a year. So far this year, the Red Cross has provided $38 million in disaster relief around the country.

AAA Texas has been serving Texans since 1902. AAA Texas offers its members a full service travel agency, auto-related and financial services, as well as public safety programs and legislative advocacy.

AAA Texas Membership Benefits:

-- 24-hour first class roadside assistance

-- Guaranteed AAA Approved Auto Repair referrals

-- AAA endorsed low cost auto and homeowners insurance - members only

-- Auto Purchasing and Financing Services

-- Discounts on purchases, services and entertainment

-- TripTiks (maps) and auto travel services

-- Full travel agency services

... and much more