MAZDA AND MAZDA FOUNDATION TOGETHER DONATE $50,000 TO AMERICAN RED CROSS FOR MOORE, OKLAHOMA, RELIEF EFFORTS

IRVINE, Calif., May 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced a $25,000 contribution to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts for victims of the recent Moore, Okla., tornado disaster.  Additionally, The Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc., Board of Trustees approved a matching donation of $25,000 to the American Red Cross in support.

"The tornado that touched-down in Moore has had an unprecedented impact on those located far outside the actual impact area, including our own employees, dealers and customers," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO.  "Because of the heroic work the American Red Cross does on behalf of those in need, we are  honored to work with them to provide help to those who have been affected by the disaster."

For those in the high impact areas who have an insurance claim of damage or loss to their current vehicle, MNAO is offering $500 cash towards the purchase of a new Mazda.  In addition, qualified customers have the option to defer their first payment for 90 days from the contract date on the purchase of any new Mazda financed under special financing offered by participating lenders.

In addition, Mazda Capital Services (MCS^[1]) will waive late fees and insufficient funds fees for customers across Cleveland, Lincoln, McClain, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie counties.  This will give MCS customers until the end of business on Tuesday, June 4, to make a payment to bring their accounts current and avoid late fees and insufficient funds fees.  MCS customers who believe they are in an area that has been impacted by the tornado and who are having trouble making a car payment, want to confirm eligibility for the late fee or insufficient funds fee waiver, or have any questions, can call Mazda Capital Services at 1-866-984-7718 (loan customers) or 1-866-984-7716 (lease customers).

Acting on a strong sense of responsibility to give something back to the communities in which it operates, Mazda established a philanthropic foundation, The Mazda Foundation. As the corporate foundation of Mazda North American Operations, it has awarded nearly $8 million to worthwhile causes across the United States since its initial grants in 1992.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers.  Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.  For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at www.mazdausamedia.com.

[1] Mazda Capital Services (MCS) is the program under which JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ("Chase") provides auto financing and account servicing to many Mazda customers. The tradename "Mazda Capital Services," as well as Mazda, are owned by Mazda Motor Corporation or its affiliates and are licensed to Chase. MCS loan and lease accounts are owned by Chase. This announcement is issued solely on behalf of Mazda North American Operations; Chase is not a party to, nor is it responsible for, the contents of this announcement.

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations