Rotary clubs respond to Japanese earthquake and tsunami

In this image from Japan’s NHK TV video footage, vehicles are washed away by the tsunami. Picture courtesy Press Association

Rotary clubs across the globe have responded to the disaster in Japan following the devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami which happened in the early hours of Friday (11 March 2011) morning.

The latest reports coming out of Japan have shown cars, ships and buildings being swept away with waves of up to 10 meters high slamming into the coast.

Rotary clubs in Great Britain and Ireland are now gearing up for collections to help support the rapid-response box projects.

The President of Middleton Rotary Club, Janice Powell, said: “Rotary as a whole will initially respond by sending Shelter boxes and a support team from the Philippines. Shelter boxes are made up in advance and stored in strategic places around the world so that they can be shipped to disasters rapidly.”

Shelter boxes typically contain a disaster relief tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.

Ms Powell continued: “The role of the local clubs here will really be to provide financial support.

“Firstly by supporting the Shelter Box scheme in order that the stock of boxes can be replenished.

“It is likely that if financial help is required by the Japanese communities then RI (Rotary International) will set up its own disaster fund. This would then be managed by the Rotarians in Japan to ensure that as much of the money as possible goes directly to where it is needed.”

An initial ShelterBox Response Team is en-route to Japan to assess the need.

Lasse Petersen, ShelterBox International Director, said: "Whole homes are being washed away and our thoughts go out to all the families who are facing this disaster.

“The epicentre was in Japan so our first team are mobilising to head there but we continue to watch very closely the path of the tsunami.

“We’re very aware the worst may not be over.”