Thanks to the generosity of Central New Yorkers, nearly half a million dollars is headed to Japan as the country struggles to recover from last month's devastating earthquake and tsunami.

In a new released issued to CNY Central, Wegmans says its 77 stores collected $471,194 in donations from customers and employees during its checkout donation program that ran from March 16th through April 2nd.

The money is being given to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami.

"We've seen tremendous generosity and support from customers and employees who want to help," says Colleen Wegman, the company's president. "Our hearts go out to the people impacted by these tragic events."

Customers were able to donate any amount, and 100% of their donations went to the fund, which provides for disaster relief efforts to help those affected by the earthquake in Japan and tsunami throughout the Pacific.

The Wegman Family Charitable Foundation also made a $100,000 donation to the relief fund.

The next time you check out of a Wegmans grocery store, you can help the victims of Japan's devastating earthquake and tsunami.

Starting at 6 a.m. Wednesday morning, all 77 Wegmans stores will start accepting customer donations at checkout to help the Japan relief effort. The program will run through Saturday, April 2nd.

You can donate any amount you would like, and 100 percent of your donation will go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami. The fund provides funding for relief supplies and other needs.

"Our hearts break for the Japanese people," said CEO Danny Wegman. "Many of our employees and our customers have family and friends in Japan, and we also have suppliers there. We all want to help."

The Wegmans Family Charitable Foundation also announced it will make a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

You can also make a donation by clicking here.

We have also compiled a list of ways you can donate. Click here to see the full list.