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WALL, N.J. – New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG), the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), has established the NJNG Tsunami Relief Fund to support the efforts of the American Red Cross in responding to the tsunami disaster in Southern Asia. NJNG is contributing an initial $50,000 and will match donations received to the fund on a dollar-for-dollar basis, up to an additional $25,000. All contributions to the NJNG Tsunami Relief Fund will support disaster assistance through the American Red Cross International Response Fund.

“The American Red Cross plays an essential role in responding to the needs of communities both here and around the world,” said Laurence M. Downes, chairman and CEO of NJNG. “We have long supported their efforts and established this fund so that contributions from our communities can go even further in assisting those in direct need in the aftermath of this tragedy.”

According to the United Nations World Health Organization, up to 5 million people in Southern Asia have been left without essential services. Health experts are concerned that many more still may fall victim to starvation and a host of opportunistic diseases. As a result, the tsunami recovery may be the largest ever for the American Red Cross.

“We are rushing to fill the needs of millions who are now homeless and without the basics for survival including food, water and shelter,” said William Murray, executive director of the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross. “The generosity of individuals and organizations like NJNG makes our work possible.”

NJNG will be soliciting donations from employees, customers, shareholders, vendors and others through March 31, 2005, through various channels, including the customer newsletter sent with bills, letters and on the company’s Web site at njliving.com. Donations may be made to the NJNG Tsunami Relief Fund, c/o New Jersey Natural Gas, P.O. Box 1463, Wall, NJ 07719. Contributions are completely deductible in accordance with IRS Code Section 170(c).

New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) is the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), a Fortune 1000 company and a member of the Forbes Platinum 400. NJNG is one of the fastest-growing local distribution companies in the United States, serving more than 450,000 customers in New Jersey’s Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex and Morris counties. This service area’s demographics and quality of life contribute greatly to NJNG’s growth. NJNG’s progress is a tribute to the dedicated employees who have shared their expertise and focus on quality through more than 50 years of serving customers and the community to make the company a leader in the competitive energy marketplace. For more information, visit NJNG’s Web site at njliving.com.