Japan Earthquake Relief & Recovery

Peace Winds’ ARROWS disaster responders are on the ground in Kumamoto supporting search-and-rescue, medical care, and supplies distribution for earthquake survivors. The 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Japan’s southern island of Kyushu this Tuesday, killing at least 13 people, injuring dozens more, and damaging homes and buildings.

For those who are trapped beneath the rubble, the first 72 hours are the most critical. Our rescuers have joined other responders in the search for survivors, including at the partially-collapsed Aeon Mall. They are accompanied by Peace Winds’ search-and-rescue dogs. Doctors and nurses on the team are also responding to local authorities’ requests for medical support, and treating survivors throughout the area.

Roads have been damaged and thousands of homes have lost power. Roughly 10,000 people have evacuated their homes and are staying in temporary shelters. Peace Winds is delivering bottled water, hygiene items, and other emergency supplies there. 

As ARROWS, local officials, and other rescue workers determine the scale and needs of survivors, their work will expand. Your donations allow us to provide flexible support for both emergency relief and long-term recovery. And, thanks to matching funds from the US-Japan Foundation and its US-Japan Leadership Program, donations to our GlobalGiving project will be doubled. 

We are so grateful for the outpouring of support you have given us already. Thank you for joining us in sending our best to all the families affected by this tragedy.