Please Support Earthquake/Tsunami Relief Efforts
Please Donate Today!
Since 1961, the cities of Bakersfield and Wakayama, Japan have enjoyed a warm and rewarding Sister City relationship that has allowed adults, children, and teens from both cities to visit and learn about the culture of another country. The many concerned phone calls and e-mails we have received asking whether friends in Wakayama are safe is evidence that these programs are the source of many fond memories and abiding friendships.
Thankfully, Wakayama was spared any significant damage or injuries. However, no one can watch the devastation in northern Japan without feeling horrified and wanting to help in some way. Our members and friends have asked us to suggest ways they can help.
One way you can help is by supporting the Riverside-Sendai Sister City Committee, the City of Riverside, and UC Riverside in raising funds to aid their Sister City of Sendai. Organizers state that 100% of funds donated will be sent to Sendai.
To make a donation, please log on to the Riverside Sendai Relief Fund at: http://www.riversideca.gov/sendairelief/
Sources of fresh, uncontaminated water and medical supplies are two of the most urgent needs right now. Without any way of delivering actual materials, our expert consultants recommend donating money to one of the following established aid agencies that are already on the ground in Japan:
From your mobile phone:
- International Medical Corps: Text MED to 80888 to make a $10 donation that will be added to your phone bill.
- UNICEF:Go to www.unicefusa.org/news/releases/unicef-humanitarian-aid-japan-earthquake-tsunami.html to donate now.
- Doctors Without Borders: Go to www.doctorswithoutborders.org to donate now.
- Mercy Corps (and their overseas partner Peace Winds Japan): Go to www.mercycorps.org/donate/japan to donate now.
- Red Cross: text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation that will be added to your phone bill. (We have done this, and it may also ask if you want to donate more.) or online go to www.RedCross.org
- Salvation Army: text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 to make a $10 donation that will be added to your phone bill, or online go to www.SalvationArmyUSA.org
