Immediately following the disaster, United Way began raising crucial funds needed for the Central Community Chest of Japan, part of the United Way worldwide network.  Thanks to individuals like you, and United Way’s corporate partners, we have raised more than $10 million to date.

While the generosity of United Way’s supporters has been overwhelming, there is still a huge task ahead for the Central Community Chest of Japan.  The Central Community Chest of Japan has mobilized relief efforts following the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan’s Pacific coastline on March 11, by collaborating with the Council for Disaster Relief Project for Volunteers, Disaster Volunteer Centers, and other nonprofit organizations.

Making progress

Almost 90 volunteer centers have been set up throughout the country at the prefectural, municipal, district, and community levels.  As of March 22, eight consultants and 23 volunteer coordinators have been dispatched to Fukushima, Miyagi, Iwate, and Aomori Prefecture, with another 68 coordinators preparing for dispatch.  The Central Community Chest of Japan has helped provide supplies to volunteer centers including: over bicycles, mattresses, cell phones, and laptops.  Additional supplies requested by the volunteer centers include motorbikes, prefab houses and tents, copy and fax machines, PCs and printers.

The Central Community Chest of Japan is collaborating with 43 affiliated nonprofit organizations through the Council for Disaster Relief Project for Volunteers.  This number is expected to grow rapidly as transportation conditions continue to improve.

You can help support the people of Japan by making a contribution online.