In response to the devastating effects of Hurricanes Ike and Gustav on impacted communities in Texas and Louisiana, BP Foundation will donate $8 million to community organizations and will also match the contributions of BP employees to the disaster relief effort.

"BP shares the nation's concern for those hit so hard by Hurricanes Ike and Gustav," said Bob Malone, chairman and president of BP America. "As we work to return our offshore oilfields and Texas City refinery to full operation, we are also working to help communities and organizations like the American Red Cross provide assistance to the people who need it most. We hope that our contribution -- along with those of millions of Americans -- will help sustain a disaster response sure to last many months."

The BP Foundation donations will be dedicated to relief organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and the United Way serving residents in Galveston County, Louisiana parishes and the city of Houston. A portion of the donations will also target relief centers, schools and volunteer fire departments in communities where BP employees live and work. BP will also conduct an employee appeal inviting BP employees in the US to assist the Red Cross in responding to Hurricanes Ike and Gustav. The BP Foundation will match employee contributions on a one-to-one basis up to $1 million.