On March 11, business ceased to function as usual in Japan, and in some cases, the world. But despite the devastation brought by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, Toyota – focused on its core principles of continued improvement and respect for people – resolved to return to normalcy and help Japan recover as soon as possible.

Just one day after the disaster, Toyota began sending truckloads of medical and emergency supplies and tankers of water, as well as providing emergency housing, vehicles and temporary relief sites to victims. Since then, Toyota has raised more than $5 million in aid funds for the people of Japan — a number that has kept growing thanks to Toyota’s North American affiliates, who are fully matching donations from Toyota’s North American employees.

Amidst this outpouring of support, Toyota’s dedicated team members and suppliers have worked closely to improve parts availability from Japan despite concerns of a parts shortage. Their efforts recently paid off with the announcement that vehicle production would resume earlier than expected, starting in June. Aiming to reach normal production levels later this year, Toyota plans to continue evaluating production, model by model, on a monthly basis.

In the meantime, Toyota invites earthquake relief supporters to send donations and heartfelt messages to friends, colleagues and neighbors in Japan via the Hope for Japan Web site at toyotasupportforjapan.com.

Supporters can also easily donate $10 to the American Red Cross through their mobile phone bills with SnapTag. To do so, simply visit Toyota on Facebook, take a picture of the SnapTag image with your mobile phone, then text or email the picture as instructed.

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