Dan Friedkin, Chairman of Gulf States Toyota and The Friedkin Group Donates $50,000 to the American Red Cross for Texas Flood Relief Efforts

HOUSTON, June 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas residents saw more than 35 trillion gallons of water fall across the state in May, according to National Weather Service. Many rivers, lakes and streams were not able to contain the water causing devastating flooding for many residents throughout Texas.

To help with the relief efforts in the most devastated areas, Dan Friedkin, Chairman of Gulf States Toyota and The Friedkin Group, has announced a donation of $50,000, to the American Red Cross

"The deadly floods and consecutive weeks of severe weather in Texas, have caused hardships for many families across the region," said Dan Friedkin, chairman and CEO of Gulf States Toyota and The Friedkin Group. "The Friedkin Group and Gulf States Toyota want to make sure these families and individuals receive the assistance they need to recover from the devastation. We selected the American Red Cross because their teams are on the ground when disaster strikes and are able to quickly help those most in need. We are glad to provide this donation towards their efforts in the hardest hit areas across Texas."

The American Red Cross is helping people in Texas and Oklahoma where devastating floods and tornadoes pounded the states throughout May. According to RedCross.org, more than 220 people spent Memorial Day weekend in Red Cross shelters in the two states.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared disasters in 70 counties after extreme weather destroyed or damaged thousands of homes and left thousands without power. Schools were closed in several metropolitan areas and people are being asked to avoid flooded areas.

Since early May, Red Cross workers have opened 30 shelters, served more than 23,000 meals and snacks, handed out 31,000 relief items and cleaning supplies. Nearly 700 Red Crossers are helping in Texas along with 22 emergency response vehicles. Additional volunteers and vehicles are on alert if needed.

The Friedkin Group and Gulf States Toyota have a long history of donating to support those affected by disasters. In 2005, the Friedkin Disaster Relief Fund was established with a $2 million contribution to help provide relief to Hurricane Katrina victims who worked for Toyota and other dealerships. The legacy of support for families is a guiding principle of the company and its affiliates.

About Gulf States Toyota

Houston-based Gulf States Toyota is one of the world's largest independent distributors of Toyota and Scion vehicles and parts, serving 155 dealers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas.  Gulf States Toyota was founded in 1969.

About The Friedkin Group

The Friedkin Group is comprised of a consortium of automotive, adventure, hospitality and entertainment companies.  These organizations include: Gulf States Toyota, Gulf States Financial Services, GS Marketing, US AutoLogistics, Auberge Resorts Collection, Iconic Properties, Legendary Adventures and Imperative Entertainment.  The Friedkin Group is led by CEO Dan Friedkin.

Media Contact:
Brent Diggins
623.201.5554
[email protected]

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150602/220407LOGO

SOURCE Gulf States Toyota