(5 September 2005 2:00 pm)

MUMBAI: US media conglomerates Disney and News Corp have donated $2.5 million and $1 million respectively towards the relief and rebuilding efforts for the victims of Hurricane Katrina which caused havoc on the Gulf coast in places like New Orleans.

Disney has announced that the money will be donated to the American Red Cross for immediate relief efforts, for rebuilding efforts targetted at children's charities. The remaining $500,000 will be directed towards volunteer centers providing services to the communities affected by the hurricane.

News Corp has pledged $1 million to the Salvation Army to support its relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The Rupert Murdoch owned media conglomerate will also match – dollar-for-dollar – contributions made by the company’s employees to accredited charities to a total of $1 million.

Separately, Fox Networks Group has committed more than $5 million in commercial inventory. Public service announcements benefiting the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and USA Freedom Corps’ ongoing relief efforts have already begun. In addition Fox, FX and FSN will participate in an industry-wide simulcast of a benefit concert and telethon that will air later this month.