WESTFIELD CENTER, OH - June 30, 2005 - Westfield Insurance recently donated $5,000 to the American Red Cross of Medina County in support of the organization's year-long goal to purchase a new disaster response vehicle, a key component to the chapter's readiness.

Presently, the Medina County chapter's disaster response vehicles are 18-year-old ambulances with high mileage and constant mechanical problems. A year ago, the chapter launched a campaign to raise the capital necessary to buy a new vehicle.

"Westfield's generosity helped the Red Cross to achieve its fundraising goal and soon, our dream of a new disaster response vehicle for all citizens of Medina County will become a reality," said Jon Park, chairman of the board, Medina County Red Cross.

Since 2000, the Red Cross has responded to hundreds of local disasters throughout the county, including the 2001 steam engine explosion, electrical outages, flooded homes in 2003 and 2004 and numerous house fires. The Medina County chapter, founded in 1917, is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers that help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. The chapter also provides relief to victims of disasters in the county.

"We are proud to support the American Red Cross in its endeavor to purchase a new vehicle. As one of the largest employers in Medina County, we feel it is important to give back to our community by ensuring the quality of life in the places we live and work," said Dan Sondles, Westfield's Chief Legislative Officer.

In business for more than 157 years, Westfield Insurance provides commercial and personal insurance and surety services to customers in 27 states, marketing its products through more than 1,200 leading independent insurance agencies. Westfield Group provides banking through Westfield BankSM and agency support through Westfield Services, Inc. Westfield recently received the 2004 Pillar Award for Community Service and is the proud sponsor of the Westfield Junior PGA Championship, Westfield Cup and "Academic Challenge."

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