Tsunami / Earthquake in Japan

I am a Japanese American, and although I have not yet had the chance to visit Japan, I still feel connected in a small way. Japan suffered an "8.9 earthquake [that] shook Japan at 2:46 PM on Friday," March 11, 2011. It is the strongest earthquake that has ever been recorded in Japan's history.


This natural catastrophe has not only left Japan with tens of billions of dollars in damages, but has also left thousands of families without loved ones. I, myself have friends in Japan and I have been waiting to hear from several of them. I send my deepest condolences to those who have not found family members and to those who were injured by this tragedy.


As I mentioned before, Japan will need to recover, and even though many of our own nations are struggling with economic problems, we should still try to show our compassion and help quicken Japan's recovery. Japanese citizens will not only need funding, but they may also need extra clothing and other donations. You can find out how to help/donate at the following websites:


American Red Cross - you can donate to the Japan Earthquake & Tsunami or you can donate $10 by texting REDCROSS to 90999 

Convoy of Hope - text Tsunami to 50555 to donate $10

Salvation Army USA - Donate $10 by texting Japan or Quake to 80888
You can also call 1-800-SALARMY or go to the above website.