Japan earthquake relief: More ways to donate frequent-flier miles and hotel points

Travelers are being offered many ways to contribute to the earthquake and tsunami relief effort in Japan. Some airline and hotel rewards programs will allow members to exchange their points for charity donations.

In an earlier blog post, I wrote about donation options from American Airlines and All Nippon Airways. Here are more companies that provide ways to help, with links to their rewards programs:

Hilton HHonors
--Will match donations made by its members to a maximum of $250,000.
--Members may donate points in increments of 10,000, which equals a $25 donation.
--Benefits the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Best Western Rewards
--Members may donate points in increments of 4,000, which equals a $15 donation.
--Benefits World Vision

Marriott Rewards
--Members may donate points in increments of 10,000, which equals a $25 donation.
--Donations made from now through May 15 will be given to Japan relief.
--Benefits the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Starwood Preferred Guest
--Members may donate points in increments of 2,000, which equals a $25 donation.
--Donations may be made through April 30.
--Benefits the American Red Cross.

Delta Air Lines
--The airline has pledged $1 million in cash and in-kind support.
--Anyone can donate through a Delta-American Red Cross Web page.
--Members can donate through SkyWish Asia to a variety of charities that are aiding relief efforts.

Japan Air Lines
--Members can donate increments of 7,500 miles, which equals about $95.
--Benefits the Central Community Chest of Japan.

American Express, Visa and PayPal are offering to waive some transaction fees for a limited time on donations to selected charities. Check their websites for details.