Aid for Earthquake and Tsunami Victims

Many people are asking how they can help survivors of the deadly earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

According to Red Cross of the Bay Area, the Japanese Red Cross is assessing the full impact of the earthquake and tsunami and has deployed 11 National Disaster Response Teams to conduct assessments, provide healthcare and first aid and plan for relief supplies distribution.

The American Red Cross is on standby to provide assistance via supplies, financial support or personnel, should the Japanese Red Cross require it. Its regional support warehouse in Malaysia is stocked with relief supplies for 5,000 families, and the emergency response unit members are on alert and ready to head to Japan.

If you'd like to help the relief efforts, you can donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief fund. Visit the website to make an online donation, or call 1-888-4-HELP-BAY (1-888-443-5722). Contributions may also be sent to the American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter, 85 Second Street, 8th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105.

Also, many organizations in Concord will undoubtedly be providing relief fundraisers. If you hear of one, email me here at Peggy.spear@patch.com.