Ways You Can Help Japan Now

Politics/Social Issues - Social Issues

By: AkbarTheTentmaker 15-Mar-2011

Introduction:

Sadly, Japan suffered a massive earthquake on March 10th, 2011, which measured 8.9 on the Richter scale. As if that wasn't bad enough, now this noble country of amazing people is also facing the possibility of radiation leaks from a total of three separate nuclear power stations.

While we can't all go there and physically volunteer our time and energy to help, we can support those who have both with financial contributions, and desperately needed supplies. These five organizations have an excellent track record of doing good in times of disaster, around the world. Rather than risk those donations being fleeced by unscrupulous types, please make sure your donations actually go to help the people of Japan.

The resource links provided below are in partnership with both Yahoo! News and Networkforgood.org. We can help. Even just a few dollars won't impact our lives negatively, but together, can serve thousands of Japanese citizens.

American National Red Cross

What disaster - big or small - is there where the Red Cross isn't there to help? Not only are they in need of financial donations, they're also asking everyone who can to donate blood.

Save the Children Federation, Inc.

Along with these other fine organizations, Save The Children was one of the first groups to put boots on the ground in Japan, and to begin assisting Japanese authorities with rescue and recovery operations.

Salvation Army National Corp.

Salvation Army employees and volunteers must wake up each morning, hoping to affect the world for the better, somehow. Not only are they one of the biggest charitable organizations to respond to an emergency, they're one of the most efficient. Your dollar will go farther.

Shelter Box, USA

According to the report on Shelter Box on Networkforgood.org, this charity applies an amazing 91% of all income towards their goal of providing emergency shelters to victims of natural disasters worldwide. Along with helping to keep the elements off, they also provide an emergency cooking stove, and other basic supplies.

Convoy of Hope

Convoy of hope provides much needed food to survivors of disaster around the world. They're already quite active here in the US, and now they're contributing all they can in Japan. In addition to food, this group also counsels survivors. They'll welcome your gift, and put it to good use.

Final Thoughts

Is there something else besides money? Obviously, money helps, but only because of what it will buy for those in need. Save those organizations a step by organizing a collection drive within your own church, school, or even neighborhood.

Among the items which will be needed you could include first aid kits, diapers and baby care products, personal grooming and hygiene items, clothing, powdered bleach, and blankets. Check with your local Red Cross or Salvation Army office for a list of items they need, and what is feasible to ship.

Even those who have no money or other items to give can still help. Your local office of your favorite charity might be in need of volunteers. To learn where you can help locally, just give any one of them a call, or contact them online, and ask.

Supporting Links

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Comments

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clewand550 1/13/2012
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Thanks for sharing this awesome list.
SherriThornhill 3/16/2011
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I hope people will fnd it in their hears to help out Japan. Shared it on FB.
LangleyCornwell 3/16/2011
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Wonderful list Akbar. Sharing now.
Cleta 3/15/2011
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This is an excellent piece and contains some good ideas.