McLEAN, Va. -

With no clear scope as to  how far the wreckage and suffering from the fallout of last week’s Pacific earthquake and tsunami will spread, conditions remain rather treacherous in parts of Japan.

Homelessness, power outages, food and water scarcity and the threat of nuclear meltdown may be abound in Japan right now, but just like they have done after natural disasters in the past, auto dealers are lending a hand.

Automakers and other auto-related companies have thrown in their support to relief and recovery efforts, and the nation’s major dealer organization has stepped up to the plate, as well.

The National Automobile Dealers Association said Tuesday that its NADA Charitable Foundation was giving $100,000 to the American Red Cross’ special fund for relief and recovery efforts in Japan.

NADA is also encouraging its dealers to donate to the Red Cross’ Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami fund.

“The magnitude of the disaster in Japan keeps growing. Relief needs are staggering,” said Stephen Wade, NADA chairman. “We’re reaching out to dealers and their employees across the country to help support the international relief efforts in Japan.”

Donations can be made either by visiting here or mailing checks to:

American Red Cross
Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief
PO Box 37242
Washington, DC 20013

More information can be found at www.redcross.org.