Update on Wednesday (3/16)

Since the last post, the death toll has jumped to 4,400.  Combined with the number of people still missing, this number is now close to 12,000.

We have been trying to find a way to send care packages to areas that need them most.  Currently, individual contributions are not being accepted until the logistics route (transport, roads, delivery/distribution systems have been established and confirmed).

We are headed to the post office now to send care packages to Tokyo, which will then be distributed once delivery access has been established.

It's difficult to know where to start writing this post: Fukushima nuclear reactors are still in critical condition, the most affected areas are experiencing heavy snow that is hindering search/rescue efforts, there is a shortage of supply (food, toiletries, fuel) spanning from areas directly affected by last week's earthquake / tsunami to Tokyo where our friends and family live.

One positive note: our fundraiser is going strong.  We are close to our goal of raising $1,000.  We are also planning a benefit for the summer.  I will post details when they are confirmed.

We are still accepting donations through PayPal, and we are also accepting donations through the mail.  The mail address is:

Japan Needs Help 2011
Brian Hampson
P.O. Box 717
Worth, IL 60482-0717

or click donate for PayPal



I will finish this post with a video clip of Japan's Emperor commenting on the status and conditions of rescue efforts, as well as the situation at the Fukushima nuclear power plants.



(video from cnn.com)

Thank you to all who have contributed to our cause.  Thank you to all who have asked about the situation.  We are trying our best to make any difference we can; trying to help those who need help the most in this time of crisis.

Brian & Mika