HOUSTON — Marathon Oil Corporation announced on Tuesday that the Company will contribute an additional $3.5 million to charitable organizations that are involved in providing aid to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Of this amount, the company is specifically directing $1.5 million to the Houston Katrina Relief Fund and $1 million to the United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast. The remaining $1 million will be granted to other Gulf Coast relief efforts as needs are identified in the coming weeks.

This additional commitment, when combined with the previously announced $1.5 million donation to the American Red Cross and the Company’s ongoing matching contribution program brings the company’s total contribution to Katrina relief efforts to more than $5 million.

“In making this additional financial commitment, Marathon is recognizing the exemplary efforts of Houstonians and our neighbors throughout the region who have responded with kindness and generosity,” said Clarence P. Cazalot, Jr., president and CEO of Marathon.

“The extraordinary needs of the victims of Hurricane Katrina become more and more evident with each passing day. Marathon applauds the efforts of rescue and relief workers along with everyday citizens who have given of themselves and who have opened their hearts to help families in need. Your accomplishments inspire us and have prompted us to give more to help you do more,” added Cazalot.

The company also continues to match dollar-for-dollar to the American Red Cross employee, retiree, and Marathon dealer, jobber and wholesaler donations to organizations engaged in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

Since September 8, members of these groups have donated more than $185,000.

“We are delighted to report that all Marathon employees and their families in the impacted area are accounted for and safe. We will continue to provide temporary housing, interest-free loans and humanitarian relief supplies to those employees in need,” added Cazalot.

The company will also continue to support employee efforts to help victims of this disaster. Employees have eagerly responded by providing volunteer assistance in shelters and at other relief agencies, as well as by continuing to participate in collection drives for supplies for those in need.