News Release

BNSF Foundation Donates $250,000 To Red Cross Japan Relief Efforts

FORT WORTH, Texas, March 28, 2011:

BNSF Foundation (BNSF) today announced it has donated $250,000 to the American Red Cross for on-going relief efforts in Japan and will match donations from BNSF employees for Japan relief fund drives.

The devastating earthquake that hit Japan on March 11, 2011, followed by a tsunami and other serious problems caused thousands of deaths, and left many more homeless.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Japanese people, who have responded to adversity with such grace during this difficult time," said John Ambler president, BNSF Foundation. "Over the past century, BNSF has been fortunate to enjoy excellent business relationships with many Japanese companies who do business in the United States. We are humbled and honored that we are able to provide some assistance after this devastating event." BNSF's contribution is being made through the American Red Cross Chisholm Trail Chapter in Fort Worth.

"The American Red Cross remains in close contact with the Japan Red Cross and they are grateful for the assistance and generosity of wonderful partners such as BNSF," said Patricia R. Thomson, CEO of the Chisholm Trail Chapter. "The Japanese have stated that such compassion as they go through these trials is incredibly uplifting at a time when they are dealing with such an immense humanitarian tragedy. This financial support is very much needed and welcomed."

While significant funds have been raised, there is still more relief needed.

"Every day the Red Cross helps with a multitude of local and international emergencies that deserve our support. As our employees have started their own Japan relief fund drives, which are eligible for a dollar for dollar match from the BNSF Foundation, we encourage other individuals and business to donate to the American Red Cross and Japan relief efforts," said Ambler.

To contact the American Red Cross or donate online, visit www.redcross.org.

About BNSF Foundation

The BNSF Foundation's mission is to support and improve the general welfare and quality of life in communities served by BNSF Railway and has been a main vehicle for charitable giving from and before the 1996 merger of the Burlington Northern and the Santa Fe railroads to form The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Company, now known as BNSF Railway Company. The BNSF Foundation is a Texas non-profit corporation located in Fort Worth.

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North America's leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,000 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain, industrial goods and low-sulfur coal that help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. And we are working continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at www.BNSF.com.

BNSF Headquarters
BNSF Railway Company
2650 Lou Menk Dr. 2nd Floor
Fort Worth, TX 76131-2830
P.O. Box 961057
Fort Worth, TX 76161-0057
Phone: (817) 352-1000