World Vision gathers supplies for Japan tsunami survivors
Aid agency World Vision has launched an appeal to help survivors of last week’s earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. The agency is gathering relief supplies for thousands of people affected and plans to focus its ongoing response on the unique needs of children.
A relief team is today assessing the situation on the ground in Fukushima, where nuclear contamination has forced the evacuations of tens of thousands of people.
Relief supplies
Tomorrow, they travel to the city of Tome - around 250 miles north of Tokyo - to help an estimated 6000 people by distributing clean water, blankets and other essentials.
Helen Keogh, CEO of World Vision Ireland, said: “The sheer scale of this disaster is as bad as anything we’ve seen globally. Our experts on the ground are constantly assessing the situation and will focus on the specific needs of children, many of whom will be deeply affected by this experience.”
World Vision is also working to set up dedicated areas where children can play safely and express themselves – known as “child friendly spaces”. Such surroundings are proven to protect children from some of the psycho-social impact of surviving a disaster.
Children
Mitsuko Sobata, communications and advocacy officer for World Vision Japan, is in the city of Sendai.
She said: “Last night, I visited one of the shelters housing some of the 340,000 people who have been evacuated around the city. Children are sleeping on cardboard with one blanket in freezing weather. It was very difficult for me to see that. They’re tired and afraid, and the tragedy they’ve endured is overwhelming.”
People can donate to the World Vision Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Appeal here or by calling 1850 366 283
Contact
A spokesperson from World Vision Japan is available on the ground for interview. Please call Tressan McCambridge +353 87 295 9344