Today we received a personal update from Keith Kall, the World Vision Senior Director. In our involvement with World Vision through our Japan-inspired t-shirts with Bulldog Drummond, we find it it important to pass the news on to you.

He stressed that even though the emergency has dropped from the news headlines, the country and people are still in critical need of help. 10,000 deaths have been counted, 17,000 people still are uncounted for and 244,000 people remain in emergency shelters. World Vision anticipates an initial 90-day response with a likely 24-month rehabilitation program for Japan.

As of now, 10,000 people have been helped by World Vision’s supply of baby diapers, blankets, bottled water, socks, warm clothing, and other important items. World Vision estimates that by the 90-day mark they will have helped 30,000 people with precooked meals, child-friendly spaces, mattresses, diapers, winter clothing, hygiene kits, batteries and blankets in addition to the critical items they already are providing.

Keith discussed the importance of the child-friendly spaces that World Vision is creating.  Some children do not know where their family is located and others have lost many friends and family members. Most children in the centers have completely lost their homes and when school will begin again is unknown. The centers provide children survivors with a safe place to play, heal from the trauma they have gone through and engage in structured activities. Healthy routines are created so the children can have a sense of normalcy.

Hearing about World Vision’s work in Japan encourages us that people are receiving good help and care. At the same time, it is a reminder for everyone that the country is still in disaster and needs continued help.