The American Red Cross (ARC) is adept at turning financial contributions into vital assistance anywhere disaster strikes. Its mission is to relieve human suffering throughout the world, but it is also dedicated to making families and communities safe at home. For many years, Canon U.S.A. has offered financial support through the American Red Cross to those affected by natural disasters and other crises. Support comes in the form of corporate donations, from Canon regional offices and subsidiaries that donate money to ARC chapters and from Canon employees who volunteer their time. Canon has made significant donations during hurricanes Mitch and Georges in 1998, the flash floods in Venezuela in 1999, and the events of September 11, 2001.