Relief efforts began soon after the 8.9-magnitude earthquake hit Japan, triggering a tsunami. The most recent reports put death-toll estimates above 10,000.
For a list of organizations accepting donations, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
A number of other national charities are also raising funds for Japan, including:
- World Vision
- Unicef
- Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders
- ADRA
- UJA Federation
- Christian Reformed World Relief Committee
- Mennonite Central Committee
Customers of most large wireless phone companies can text:
- Text "ASIA" to 30333 to donate $5, with donations going to the CRC's Japan Earthquake/Asia-Pacific Tsunami fund.
- Donors can also make a $10 donation by texting "QUAKE" to 45678 from most mobile carriers in Canada.
The Salvation Army has allocated $75,000 to support the relief effort. Donations to its 2011 Japan Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund can be made at SalvationArmy.ca/japan, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), or via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4.
The Canadian Red Cross is also encouraging Canadians to support relief, evacuation and emergency response efforts with donations to its Japan Earthquake/Asia-Pacific Tsunami fund. Those wishing to make donations can call 1-800-418-1111.
You can also help fundraising efforts for Japan by contacting plates4japan@gmail.com.
A Plates4Japan fundraiser is planned for April 12, and a Ganbare Japan concert fundraiser for April 19.
