By Kaitlin B. Harris | Communications and Fundraising Specialist
It has been eight months since heavy rain caused severe flooding events that devastated Western Japan in July of 2018, creating a wake of destruction and displacing thousands of residents. Subsequent heat waves and several typhoons slammed the already vulnerable populations in the region. The recovery has been steady and on-going as Peace Winds continues to support the ever-changing needs of the communities affected.
Since Peace Winds has been on the ground, much progress has been made. Many of the evacuation shelters have been closed with many residents returning to their former homes after extensive repairs. In collaboration with a local NGO, hundreds of households have been mudded-out with the removal of mass amounts of earth, sediment, and debris that infiltrated homes during the floods. As families resettled, Peace Winds supplied over 1,500 households with electronics and appliances and provided kits that included bedding, kitchen basics, and cleaning supplies to nearly 1,000 households. In support of vulnerable populations, we provided after school care for children with disabilities and established meeting places equipped with tables and chairs for those with dementia and their families to enjoy meals and coffee.
In Mabi, just outside of Kurashiki, Peace Winds has also provided medical supplies to the 12 medical clinics that were impacted to reinstate normal medical services. To inform residents of the reopened clinics, Peace Winds distributed maps and information packets to residents with the assistance of a local medical association. Peace Winds also supplied electronic medical record and data management systems to each of the clinics and, to combat flu season, provided medical masks and conducted trainings for youth.
Although progress has been made, approximately 5,400 survivors still reside in temporary housing and remain displaced. Peace Winds will continue to support long-term recovery for evacuees with counseling and relocation planning, as well as providing basic supplies, medical assistance, and community engagement activities.
We are sincerely grateful for the contributions that have been made to assist those affected by the Western Japan floods and Typhoon Jebi, and appreciate those looking to donate. Your contributions will ensure the long-term recovery of those who are still displaced.
By Kristen Johnson | Communications and Fundraising Specialist
By Kristen Johnson | Communications Specialist
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