New Orleans, LA (June 14, 2006) -- Grainger, North America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today contributed $15,000 to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) / Baton Rouge Area Foundation Small Business Disaster Relief Fund to help small businesses in New Orleans rebuild after Hurricane Katrina. This contribution comes nearly a month after Grainger reopened its branch in downtown New Orleans, located at 601 S. Galvez St, three blocks from the Superdome.

Grainger was one of the first companies to reopen in New Orleans after last year's devastating storm.

"Grainger is proud to make this contribution to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry / Baton Rouge Area Foundation Small Business Disaster Relief Fund to help local businesses in New Orleans get back on their feet," said Jim Ryan, Grainger president. "Our employees take great pride in helping businesses maintain their facilities every day by providing essential supplies and materials. When disasters strike, our help is even more essential."

Grainger presented the contribution at an Open House event held at its branch on S. Galvez St. Michael Mitternight, Chairman of the Board, Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, accepted the gift on behalf of the Small Business Disaster Fund.

"Grainger's generous contribution will provide essential support to New Orleans small businesses as they continue to rebuild," said Mitternight. "Many small businesses were damaged or destroyed after Hurricane Katrina and many are still in need of assistance. We are grateful for the helpful hand Grainger has extended to our small business community."

After Hurricane Katrina, Grainger was instrumental in getting local businesses and first responders needed supplies like generators, gas cans, flashlights, batteries, respirators, and cleaning and sanitary supplies to aid the recovery efforts. Earlier this year, the company held hurricane preparedness events at various locations throughout the Gulf Region to help customers prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.

Grainger operates out of two locations in New Orleans and seven throughout the State of Louisiana.