IRVINE, CA — Toyota Material Handling U.S.A., Inc. (TMHU), today announced that as a result of its associate giving programs, more than three tons of food and goods will be donated to local food banks in the areas where Toyota employees reside and work—Orange County, Calif., and Columbus, Ind.

"Toyota is extremely pleased with the results of our food drive," said Alan Cseresznyak, senior vice president of administration for TMHU. "The generous amount of food donated by our associates will go a long way in providing basic essentials to those in need."

Toyota has long supported associate giving programs, food bank and community-related contributions. This year, Irvine-based TMHU associates/contractors contributed 2,671 pounds of food, which will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. Columbus, Ind.-based TMHU associates/contractors donated 3,401 pounds of food to the Love Chapel of Columbus, which provides a food pantry to ensure people of the community are provided with the basic amenities.

In other holiday news, in lieu of printing holiday cards Toyota made a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

In addition, Melanie Pearlman, daughter of TMHU associate David Pearlman, is the winner of the company electronic holiday card contest. Pearlman’s coloring rendition of a Toyota lift truck giving an extra "lift" to Santa by helping him transport presents is featured in the company’s holiday card, distributed nationwide to its customers, suppliers and associates. Pearlman, 12, a budding artist, resides in Fountain Valley, Calif.

For more information on TMHU, please visit www.toyotaforklift.com