Japan Relief Update | News
April 6, 2011
As of the 25th March authorities have confirmed that over 27,000 people are dead or missing. Search and Rescue efforts reluctantly ended on March 23rd with over 40,000 people rescued mainly from isolation caused by flood inundation. The government has now turned its efforts to restore infrastructure in the affected region with 90% of roads and telecommunications restored.
Harsh weather, lack of supplies, and inconsistent distributions means that Japan remains in an emergency disaster situation. FTH is in a race against time to get food, water and relief supplies into affected regions. Survivors have an urg
ent need for drinkable water, basic food and 
shelter.
FTH Response – Phase One
FTH global offices are working together to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Japan.
Despite having the 10th largest population in the world (127 million), the Christian community of Japan is less than 1%. With no previous projects in Japan or established partnerships with churches, our first step was to find a local church to partner with for distribution of food and relief supplies. Empowering the local church we also ensure that food gets to those who need it most.
FTH USA was able to make contact with Kawakawa Christ Church (Japanese Assemblies of God). The pastor’s son led an assessment team into Sendai two days after the disaster. An emergency transfer of funds was sent to JAG and it was used to purchase food, water, baby formula and heating fuel. This was distributed in the first week.
FTH HK was able to make contact with a Non-Government Organisation (NGO) ―Christian Relief Assistance Support and Hope‖(CRASH) based in Japan. A second emergency transfer of funds was sent to CRASH and additional food, underwear and winter clothing was purchased and distributed in the second week of the disaster.
CRASH are staging distributions out of Nakoso Christ Church led by Pastor Sumiyoshi. Pastor Sumiyoshi is spearheading efforts to provide assistance through the churches in northern Ibaragi Prefecture and southern Fukushima Prefecture. Both areas were hardest hit by the Tsunami but also face the greatest risk from radiation exposure.
The ominous threat of radiation leaks from the Fukushima Nuclear power plant and the great uncertainty of the final outcome, pervades every decision and action in affected areas.
Phase Two – Bulk Shipments
FTH USA - Currently ten 40foot containers of water available for shipment pending assurances the Government will clear and accept the deliveries. We will send two 40foot containers of water, pots and pans and Gospel literature from the US this week.
These will be scripture booklets focusing on comfort and encouragement such as ―Help from Above, ―The Power of God, and ―The Way to God. We are looking for a low cost / high quantity source of Japanese bibles.
FTH GER - Four additional containers of water, one of baby food, one a mixture of baby food, cookies and blankets. A seventh is being prepared.
Shipments from Germany will arrive late May, which should overlap the shipment from the US which will arrive in mid April.
Two interesting quotes from pastors that CRASH interacted with in the disaster zone:
“Before the tsunami, I was asking God what I can do for my community. Now, I’m helping my neighbours with their homes. I cannot say anything about the tsunami, but I’m so thankful that I have a chance to help my neighbours now.” –Pastor Otomo
“I asked God why he brought me here to lose my house and my church. But then, I went to the evacuation shelter, and I saw so many people. I was able to talk to so many people and help them. I thank God for that opportunity.” –Pastor Naito
The need is enormous. The situation desperate. Please do your part to help.
Submitted by: Benjamin Evans, Director FTH Australia
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