Emergency Response to Noto Peninsula Earthquake

Overview

Following up our previous report, we would like to share an update on our ongoing support activities from May to August 2025 for those affected by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake.
It has now been approximately one year and seven months since the disaster drastically changed the living conditions of the local residents. Having been involved since immediately after the earthquake and building relationships over this extended period, our continued efforts are now bearing meaningful results.

Key Updates & Achievements

• Community Bonding and Health Support through “Chat Café” (May to July 2025)
  From May to July, we continued “Chat Café” activities in Noto Town and Wajima City, with more than 300 residents participating. These gatherings provided a safe space for conversation and mutual support, while also expanding into basic health checks (blood pressure, body temperature, heatstroke prevention advice) and rehabilitation visits by physical therapists. This integration of medical and social support helped sustain both the physical and emotional well-being of residents in temporary housing.

• Rehabilitation Home Visits (April to August 2025)
  Japan Heart conducted rehabilitation home visits for residents in temporary housing. These visits focused on maintaining or improving physical function and adapting to daily life. For example, individuals who experienced reduced mobility after hospitalization were assisted with care beds and mobility guidance, enabling them to regain independence and engage more comfortably in daily activities.

• Workshops for Sustainable Disaster Medicine (Early August 2025)
  A rehearsal for the 15th Disaster Volunteer Registration Training was held, with 17 participants including staff, new hires, and returning volunteers.
  Following this, Japan Heart organized a rehabilitation training session and a medical equipment workshop for local healthcare professionals.
  This included training on the Join Mobile Clinic (JMC), a portable medical system first introduced during our support for the Myanmar earthquake allowing staff to practice its use for remote consultations and rapid on-site medical support.
  These initiatives aimed to build a sustainable disaster medicine model, ensuring that skills and knowledge can continue to be applied in the community long after initial relief efforts.

• Participation in Kochi Prefecture Comprehensive Disaster Prevention Drill (August 18, 2025)
  Japan Heart joined the nationwide Comprehensive Disaster Prevention Drill in Kochi Prefecture, simulating large-scale post-disaster medical support. By applying lessons learned in Noto, we enhanced coordination with local authorities and strengthened readiness for future emergencies.

• Closing of the Matsunami “Chat Café” (August 29, 2025)
  After over a year of continuous support, the Matsunami “Chat Café” held its final session. Residents and staff reflected on how it had become a vital place for emotional connection and daily encouragement. Many expressed deep gratitude, affirming the importance of sustained community-based support in long-term recovery.

Upcoming Goals

Currently, in collaboration with local public health nurses, we regularly organize short-term events (salon activities) aimed at fostering community-building among residents living in temporary housing and identifying potential health-related issues, including those related to medical care, nursing, and social welfare.
As of August 2025, the cumulative number of participants in these salon activities has exceeded 1,200. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts by listening closely to everyone’s voice and constantly asking ourselves what kind of support is truly needed on the ground.

Acknowledgement

We sincerely thank all supporters who have stood with us since the Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Your kindness enables us not only to deliver medical and social support but also to walk alongside the community as it rebuilds.