Canadian Lutheran relief agency issues emergency appeal for Japan earthquake and tsunami victims

Homeless: Survivors of Friday's earthquake and tsunami spend time at an evacuation center in Rikuzentakata (AP Photo)

The biggest earthquake to hit Japan since records began 140 years ago struck the northeast coast on March 11, generating a 10 metre tsunami that swept away everything in its path and killed at least 10,000 people. 350,000 people are living in evacuation sites at the moment. The number of dead is expected to rise as the situation becomes clearer.

Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) is issuing an appeal for funds to support the humanitarian aid being provided through ACT Alliance. ACT reports there are various gaps in basic needs such as water, food, blankets, electricity, health and sanitation kits that evacuation sites are facing, since most efforts at the moment focus on search and rescue and evacuation from radiation contaminated areas where explosions at nuclear power plants have taken place.

ACT Alliance is in the midst of a needs assessment from both land and air. ACT General Secretary, John Nduna said, “We are deeply concerned and we are monitoring the situation closely so that ACT Alliance can direct its resources to where they are most needed, as quickly as possible.” Should ACT decide not to proceed with an aid program for Japan, CLWR will work through other partners to deliver effective and efficient humanitarian aid.

Donations to the appeal may be made through CLWR in the following ways:

1) AFTER MARCH 15 – Online at www.clwr.org/donate. In the process of completing the form, you will come to a pull-down menu that allows you to designate a specific project. Choose Japan Earthquake.
2) By calling our toll-free number: 1.800.661.2597 or locally at 204.694.5602.
3) By sending a cheque made payable to CLWR to CLWR, 302-393 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 3H6. Please indicate in your correspondence that you wish to contribute to the 2011 Japan Earthquake Appeal.

Print this article