Manufacturers have began to offer material support and financial aid to the victims of this week's terrorist attacks in the US.

Ford Motor Company is to donate $1m to the American Red Cross and will match all employee contributions to the American Red Cross. It has also offered to provide other emergency support, including emergency response team services and up to 48,000 sq-ft of office space for displaced government employees.

DaimlerChrysler is committing $10 million, through the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund, to support the children of victims of the terrorist attacks. Additional donations from members of the DaimlerChrysler family around the globe - including employees, dealers and suppliers - will be established through the fund, said DaimlerChrysler chairman Juergen Schrempp.

"In these difficult hours, for the civilized world and especially for the American people, we want to send a signal of humanity and solidarity," said Mr. Schrempp. "The attacks have deeply affected the lives and futures of many children who have lost a mother or father. While this can never replace the void in these children's lives, it can help give them renewed hope."

In addition, DaimlerChrysler employees, dealers and suppliers around the world have expressed a desire to help in this effort. As a result, DaimlerChrysler will open an account so that contributions can be made.

The money will be used for various kinds of support, including educational needs.