Ninety-one countries have thus far offered to assist with relief efforts from last Friday’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Among these countries include Pakistan, Bolivia, China. Not only are global countries pitching in for humanitarian aid, but nine international organizations have offered their help as well. Unlike Haiti and Indonesia, Japan is typically not a country considered to be in need of wide-scale international aid. Despite this, up to $25 million has been estimated in donations to nonprofit organizations—far less than the money raised for Haiti.
Among these global organizations donating to the cause is the American Red Cross. Since March 12, the Red Cross has stationed a disaster management expert to aid, advise, and provide high-level support to the Japanese Red Cross, which continues to head the earthquake and tsunami response. So far, the American Red Cross has provided shelter and about 30,000 blankets to those who were able to evacuate before the tsunami. The organization is allowing those who want to help to text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Aid to the Japanese has also come in the form of Doctors Without Borders, a non-governmental organization known for its project in war-torn areas and developing countries. On March 11, two teams from Doctors Without Borders arrived in Sendai, and three additional teams were sent the following day. While the organization praised Japan’s efforts to manage this large disaster, they still responded to the disaster as needed. This global aid, whether it may be in the form of monetary donations or needed supplies, has been tremendous. However, there is still a long way to go!
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