IRC helps 3 Japanese aid groups respond to quake disaster

The IRC is supporting the relief efforts of three Japanese aid groups providing lifesaving assistance to earthquake and tsunami survivors in Japan. (Photo: Roslan Rahman/AFP/Getty Images)

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is supporting the relief efforts of Japanese aid groups delivering food, tents and other critical supplies to survivors of Japan’s devastating earthquake and tsunami.

“We are working through three established and highly regarded Japanese aid organizations that are operational in some of the hardest-hit prefectures in northeastern Japan,” says Gillian Dunn, who oversees the IRC’s emergency response programs.

The IRC began supporting Peace Winds Japan last week.  The group has chartered helicopters and is flying in fuel, blankets, food and additional emergency items to evacuation centers where hundreds of thousands of survivors are sheltering.

The IRC is also designating funds to the Association for Aid and Relief Japan, which is focusing its relief efforts on people with disabilities, institutions for the elderly and others who have difficulty accessing humanitarian aid.  AAR Japan is providing items such as clothing, food, sleeping bags and hygiene supplies.

In addition, the IRC is contributing to the aid operations of JEN Japan, which is preparing hot meals at evacuation centers, and distributing diapers and other infant supplies, blankets, sanitary items and other needed goods.  JEN is also initiating psychosocial care for survivors at the evacuation sites, with a focus on children.
 
All three groups will be adapting their response as conditions and needs evolve and aim to launch long-term recovery programs in affected communities.

Media Contact:

Melissa Winkler, 212-551-0972 / 646-734-0305 or melissa.winkler@rescue.org