Japan devastated by quake and
tsunami; How you can help
, 365gay.com
03.13.2011 11:50pm EDT
We’ve all seen the photos and the footage: Japan was hit and hurt by the 5th strongest recorded earthquake to strike since 1900, igniting a vicious tsunami that crushed its shores on Friday.
HOW
TO HELP
The American Red Cross has taken over social media platforms,
updating online followers through Twitter (@RedCross) and Facebook
posts and accepting donations. Anyone can text “RED CROSS” to 90999 to
donate $10 to the Red Cross efforts and be charged on their next cell
phone bill.
To help find loved ones: Inquiries concerning U.S. citizens
living or traveling in Japan should be referred to the U.S. Department of
State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747 or 202 647-5225.
Global Giving is working with International Medical Corps,
Save the Children, and other organizations, taking donations to provide relief
and emergency services to the earthquake and tsunami victims. Visit GlobalGiving.org to donate.
Most disaster relief organizations are advising against
sending care packages, food, or clothing to the area at this time. Your $5 or
$10 will go a much longer way. You can find additional donation options on Network For Good.
For breaking news and information on the situation in
Japan and the coastal Western U.S., check out The Huffington Post
or CBS News.