Japan Platform reported that relief supplies raised through its matching program reached the Natori relief supply warehouse (the town’s recreation center) today. Sanitary supplies provided by Kao (hand sanitizer, etc.) were being distributed to evacuees with the help of the Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA) … Read more
In Iwate Prefecture’s Kamaishi City, the larger evacuation centers have been receiving relief supplies and medical services, but AMDA reports that the management of aid stocks needs to be improved. They also report that communication lines to the town of Otsuchi are still out and some evacuation … Read more
On the 29th, JEN distributed fleece clothing and underwear that was donated by UNIQLO to evacuees in Ishinomaki (Miyagi Prefecture). The UNIQLO employees assisted in delivering these goods to more than 750 residents at three sites that had been announced on the radio. JEN is … Read more
Various sources indicate that Japan has experienced over 900 aftershocks with about 60 over magnitude 6.0 and three over magnitude 7.0. Also in the news on the 12th was the announcement by the Japanese government that the nuclear crisis was even more serious than previously indicated. It … Read more
In the Chinomori district of Ofunato (Iwate Prefecture), construction was completed on 71 temporary homes last week, which will house 188 people. With the help of local volunteers, Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) delivered household items to help make those families’ new lives a bit easier. … Read more
This week is the traditional “Golden Week” holiday in Japan, and many Japanese people are taking advantage of their time off to volunteer in the Tohoku region. As described in a recent Japan Times article, many groups are trying to organize the outpouring of concern into practical assistance … Read more
During a visit this month to Kamaishi, JCIE staff visited what remains of one of the city’s junior high schools. Surrounded by mounds of rubble, the images are a haunting reminder of the devastation that occurred that day. But in what was called the “Miracle … Read more
A JCIE team visited several hard-hit towns Tohoku on June 17–19 in order to speak with NGO leaders, government officials, and local citizens about their communities’ needs and how outside aid can be directed most effectively. Following are the reflections of JCIE/USA Executive Director Jim … Read more
A JCIE team visited several hard-hit towns Tohoku on June 17–19 in order to speak with NGO leaders, government officials, and local citizens about their communities’ needs and how outside aid can be directed most effectively. Following are the reflections of JCIE/USA Executive Director Jim … Read more
The Association for Aid and Relief (AAR) Japan recently delivered clothing and other supplies to Madoka, a social welfare facility in Sendai (Miyagi Prefecture) that provides employment assistance to people with disabilities. AAR volunteers were accompanied by helpers from an American aid group who brought … Read more