Sequestration in Disaster Relief

Sequestration in Disaster Relief: The upcoming 2013 budgetary fiscal cliff has prompted some in Congress to consider sequestration in disaster relief in order to save money. Sequestration is simply defined as automatic spending cuts.

Baptist Press - 83,500 meals cooked by disaster relief volunteers post-Isaac - News with a Christian Perspective

Baptist Press - 83,500 meals cooked by disaster relief volunteers post-Isaac - News with a Christian Perspective: Southern Baptist Disaster Relief feeding operations are now in high gear in nine Louisiana and Mississippi venues, with 83,500 hot meals prepared and delivered to Hurricane Isaac victims in the two hard-hit Gulf Coast states by noon Sept. 4.

Disaster Relief Of A Different Kind - West Virginia Headline News and Talk Radio

Disaster Relief Of A Different Kind - West Virginia Headline News and Talk Radio: Seventeen West Virginia Office of Technology employees are working long hours in Louisiana lending an IT helping hand following what Hurricane Isaac left behind.

The workers volunteered for the service and state Chief Technology Officer Gale Given says they've been busy since they arrived.

"They are helping intake centers distribute food stamp cards," she said. "They may be pulled away to do other things but that's what they are doing right now."

Baptist Press - Southern Baptist relief spurs 'thank you' from Napolitano - News with a Christian Perspective

Baptist Press - Southern Baptist relief spurs 'thank you' from Napolitano - News with a Christian Perspective: Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano called to thank Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers who have diligently served since Hurricane Isaac hit the southeast Louisiana coast 10 days ago.

Napolitano Thursday (Sept. 6) personally expressed gratitude to North American Mission Board President Kevin Ezell.

Donating to disaster relief efforts - WTVA.com

Donating to disaster relief efforts - WTVA.com: Jackson – Governor Phil Bryant has activated the Mississippi Disaster Recovery Fund (http://www.mississippirelief.com) to collect financial donations.

PHOTOS: Isaac response in Mississippi � American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom

PHOTOS: Isaac response in Mississippi � American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom: AmeriCorps worker Ally Ramirez carries a Red Cross disaster clean-up kit during the Hurricane Isaac disaster relief supply distribution in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Disaster partner organizations like AmeriCorps are working with the Red Cross to bring emergency relief to families across the northern Gulf Coast following Hurricane Isaac. Photo credit: Talia Frenkel/American Red Cross

Disaster relief sluggish for thousands without power | Daily World | dailyworld.com

Disaster relief sluggish for thousands without power | Daily World | dailyworld.com: More than 2,800 people were at shelters in Louisiana, down from around 4,000. State officials were uncertain how many people would eventually need longer-term temporary housing. Kevin Davis, head of the state's emergency office, said housing would likely include hotels at first, then rental homes as close as possible to their damaged property.

Local Red Cross Volunteer Remembers Helping in Katrina - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

Local Red Cross Volunteer Remembers Helping in Katrina - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader: Volunteers from Mid-Michigan are already down at the Gulf coast, ready to help with hurricane relief efforts.

Almost seven years ago to the day, Gloria Andrews signed up through the Red Cross to go help with Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

Local NGOs propose disaster-relief body for entire East Asia - Taipei Times

Local NGOs propose disaster-relief body for entire East Asia - Taipei Times: Reacting to the rise in frequency of natural disasters affecting East Asian countries, local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have proposed setting up a coordination platform for disaster relief in Taiwan, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official said yesterday.

Google launches crisis map anticipating hurricane Isaac | Fox News

Google launches crisis map anticipating hurricane Isaac | Fox News: To do its part, Google has launched the new website aggregating info on tropical storm Isaac as part of its Crisis Response project.

Isaac: A Chance for Government to Rebuild Public Trust? - NPQ – Nonprofit Quarterly - Promoting an active and engaged democracy.

Isaac: A Chance for Government to Rebuild Public Trust? - NPQ – Nonprofit Quarterly - Promoting an active and engaged democracy.: Tropical Storm Isaac only lightly brushed by Florida, though the Republican National Convention convened and then recessed due to the completely understandable caution that Tampa could have been hit. The path of the storm (which may become a hurricane) is heading along the path that looks just like the Hurricane Katrina vector, straight for Louisiana and the Mississippi gulf coast. Isaac isn’t expected to be as strong as Katrina (much less Katrina combined with Wilma, which also took a huge toll, particularly in Louisiana’s rural areas), but it is slow moving and loaded with tons of rain. Flooding in the low-lying areas of the coast is a distinct possibility if the storm’s impact on Haiti over the weekend is any guide. Nonprofits World Vision and Doctors without borders are reporting on the impact of the storm on Haiti. World Vision has noted the number of homes in Cite Soleil that lost their roofs or were flooded, and Doctors Without Borders is predicting an increase in cholera cases.

Obama signs declaration for FEMA disaster relief - WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports

Obama signs declaration for FEMA disaster relief - WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports: BATON ROUGE, LA (WAFB) - President Obama signed an emergency disaster declaration which will allow Louisiana to use federal aid to help with local response efforts to Tropical Storm Isaac.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says the authorization will coordinate relief efforts and provide federal funds for local emergency and relief efforts. FEMA says the measure authorizes the use of "equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency."

Tropical Storm Isaac Deepens Man-Made Housing Disaster in Haiti - The ITT List

Tropical Storm Isaac Deepens Man-Made Housing Disaster in Haiti - The ITT List: he AP is reporting that the death toll in Haiti from Tropical Storm Isaac this weekend has now risen to 19. Long-displaced earthquake victims were evacuated from the makeshift camps where they’ve resided since 2010, and several died when their houses collapsed on them. As relief efforts get under way, housing rights advocates are emphasizing that Haitians’ ongoing vulnerability to natural disasters represents a man-made failure.

Baptist Press - Isaac disaster relief prep focuses on Gulf Coast - News with a Christian Perspective

Baptist Press - Isaac disaster relief prep focuses on Gulf Coast - News with a Christian Perspective: With Tropical Storm Isaac continuing to churn toward landfall as a potential hurricane on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning -- somewhere along the Louisiana and Mississippi Coasts -- Southern Baptist Disaster Relief leaders already are planning where major storm responses will be deployed.

OUR OPINION: Reform the ‘disaster’ of Minnesota’s disaster aid | Grand Forks Herald | Grand Forks, North Dakota

OUR OPINION: Reform the ‘disaster’ of Minnesota’s disaster aid | Grand Forks Herald | Grand Forks, North Dakota: The League is famous for its fiscal conservatism and might have been expected to call for ending disaster relief altogether. But Krinkie’s most recent column doesn’t go there.

Instead, the former Republican state legislator recounts the report’s findings and supports its recommendations.

That’s because right now, the aid process is “a hodge-podge of state and local government programs as well as non-profit agencies working to provide disaster relief services,” Krinkie writes.

And as long Minnesota’s going to be in the disaster-relief business, it might as well do the job right.

“Even in your desire to help others, you need to include accountability,” Krinkie writes.

Here’s a quote from the auditor’s report that captures its basic findings:

Crowdsourcing Community-Based Disaster Relief in Indonesia | iRevolution

Crowdsourcing Community-Based Disaster Relief in Indonesia | iRevolution: Crowdsourcing Community-Based Disaster Relief in Indonesia
Posted on August 21, 2012 | 5 Comments

I just came across a very neat example of crowdsourced, community-based crisis response in this excellent report by the BBC World Service Trust: “Still Left in the Dark? How People in Emergencies Use Communication to Survive—And How Humanitarian Agencies Can Help.” I plan to provide a detailed summary of this important report in a forthcoming blog post. In the meantime, this very neat example below (taken directly from said BBC report) is well worth sharing.

Commission publishes new guidance on disaster relief appeals

Commission publishes new guidance on disaster relief appeals: The Charity Commission has published new guidance on starting, running and supporting charitable disaster appeals.

It is intended to provide information and advice to charities as well as members of the public who want to give much needed help to people affected by a disaster or other humanitarian crisis.

The public’s natural reaction to a disaster is to do as much as possible to help, as quickly as possible.

Organizations help residents with disaster relief� - State News - Charleston Daily Mail - West Virginia News and Sports -

Organizations help residents with disaster relief� - State News - Charleston Daily Mail - West Virginia News and Sports -: CHARLESTON, W.Va. - West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster assist in times of need by finding and stretching resources without duplicating services.

"I enjoy helping people and working with the different organizations," said Jenny Gannaway, state chairwoman.

In the wake of any disaster, it is a blessing to see families receive assistance that otherwise would not be available, she said.

Colo. Charities to Get First Funds to Aid Shooting Victims by Week’s End - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Colo. Charities to Get First Funds to Aid Shooting Victims by Week’s End - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: With more than $2-million raised for the victims of Friday morning’s shooting rampage at a movie theater in Aurora, Colo., the Community First Foundation, the main local organization collecting donations, plans to give the first $100,000 raised, plus an additional $100,000 from the foundation, to local charities by the end of this week.

Sky News: Disaster relief lessons shared

Sky News: Disaster relief lessons shared: Australian army chiefs are sharing their know-how with other defence forces across the Asia-Pacific, to improve responses and recoveries in disaster relief operations.

Japan Society Allocates Additional $2.1 Million with 5th Round of Earthquake Relief Grants: Press: About: Japan Society

Japan Society Allocates Additional $2.1 Million with 5th Round of Earthquake Relief Grants: Press: About: Japan Society: Japan Society Allocates Additional $2.1 Million with 5th Round of Earthquake Relief Grants
July 9, 2012

New York, NY – Japan Society announced today the fifth round of grants from the Japan Earthquake Relief Fund (JERF), supporting eight organizations, seven of which are first-time grantees. With additional grants totaling $2,131,000, this latest announcement brings total allocations from the $12.9 million fund to $9.4 million distributed to 27 org

FEMA: Apply For Assistance

FEMA: Apply For Assistance

Clinton-Bush fund puts $2.6 million into Haiti - Businessweek

Clinton-Bush fund puts $2.6 million into Haiti - Businessweek: nonprofit set up by former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush has issued nearly $2.6 million in loans and grants to help Haitian businesses and job training programs.

Waldo Canyon Fire Explodes: More Than 32,000 Ordered To Flee Colo. Wildfire

Waldo Canyon Fire Explodes: More Than 32,000 Ordered To Flee Colo. Wildfire: Officials don't know how many houses have been destroyed in the towering blaze that has forced mandatory evacuations for more than 32,000 residents, Colorado Springs emergency management director Brett Waters said. Among those urgently evacuated Tuesday evening were residents at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Hindu Temple Faces Fine Over Tsunami Donations

Hindu Temple Faces Fine Over Tsunami Donations: A Hindu temple has been fined $301,869 by the Canada Revenue Agency for sending money to "non-qualified donees," which include a group that Ottawa alleges was part of a support network for the Tamil Tigers.

The Hindu Mission of Mississauga, which is a registered charity, sent money to an overseas charity in the aftermath of the December 2004 tsunami, which devastated part of Sri Lanka.

Florida Baptists’ 26 months of relief work in Haiti reviewed - Florida Baptist Witness

Florida Baptists’ 26 months of relief work in Haiti reviewed - Florida Baptist Witness: Florida Baptists have been in partnership with Haitian Baptists through the Confratenite Missionaire Baptiste d’Haiti (CMBH) for the past 15 years. Much of the response, orchestrated from the Florida Mission House located in Port-au-Prince utilized the network of CMBH churches throughout the most heavily damaged areas to identify and meet specific needs.

Highlights of the initial relief response which began immediately after the January 2010 earthquake were as follows:

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio: Over the past year, people and businesses in the Pacific Northwest have contributed tens of millions of dollars to Japanese earthquake and tsunami relief. It's an unfamiliar situation for a wealthy, industrialized country like Japan to be the recipient of international relief funds. Correspondent Tom Banse visited Japan to see where the money went. He found widespread appreciation among Japanese people. At the same time, a poll shows they have less trust in the non-profit sector than they did a year ago.

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio: Over the past year, people and businesses in the Pacific Northwest have contributed tens of millions of dollars to Japanese earthquake and tsunami relief. It's an unfamiliar situation for a wealthy, industrialized country like Japan to be the recipient of international relief funds. Correspondent Tom Banse visited Japan to see where the money went. He found widespread appreciation among Japanese people. At the same time, a poll shows they have less trust in the non-profit sector than they did a year ago.

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio

Follow The Money: Japan Disaster Relief | Northwest Public Radio: Over the past year, people and businesses in the Pacific Northwest have contributed tens of millions of dollars to Japanese earthquake and tsunami relief. It's an unfamiliar situation for a wealthy, industrialized country like Japan to be the recipient of international relief funds. Correspondent Tom Banse visited Japan to see where the money went. He found widespread appreciation among Japanese people. At the same time, a poll shows they have less trust in the non-profit sector than they did a year ago.

A letter from Syria: 12 trucks of aid and a tragedy � Red Cross Blogs

A letter from Syria: 12 trucks of aid and a tragedy � Red Cross Blogs: Last month, we sent experienced delegate Alasdair Gordon-Gibson to work for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Damascus. Now back in the UK, Alasdair writes about his experiences.

Red Cross chapters to offer boot camp - SouthwestIowaNews.com: News

Red Cross chapters to offer boot camp - SouthwestIowaNews.com: News: The Nebraska/Southwest Iowa Region of the American Red Cross will hold Ready to Respond Boot Camp in the Omaha metro June 4-16.

A year later, volunteers still helping Massachusetts tornado survivors | masslive.com

A year later, volunteers still helping Massachusetts tornado survivors | masslive.com: Nearly a year later, the volunteers are still at it, chipping away at the tornado damage to help their neighbors and area residents. Numerous organizations – from the United Way of Pioneer Valley to the American Red Cross – also have contributed, helping residents rebuild

Internal Revenue Service Webinar Starting and Operating Charities for Disaster Relief

Internal Revenue Service Webinar Registration Page: IRS Presenters:

Steven Grodnitzky, Tax Attorney, Manager, IRS Exempt Organizations Office

Emily Mangrum, Tax Law Specialist, IRS Exempt Organizations Office
When disasters strike new charities spring up to help the victims, and existing charities want to expand their activities to provide disaster relief. But often, these organizations don’t understand the complexities of starting and operating an organization to provide disaster relief.

Tornado cost: More than $80 million | StarTribune.com

Tornado cost: More than $80 million | StarTribune.com: A sample of the major contributions, public and private, that helped cover costs from the May 22, 2011, tornado that hit north Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Golden Valley and Fridley:

Tornado cost: More than $80 million | StarTribune.com

Tornado cost: More than $80 million | StarTribune.com: A sample of the major contributions, public and private, that helped cover costs from the May 22, 2011, tornado that hit north Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Golden Valley and Fridley:

China puts 20mln yuan for disaster relief in Gansu CCTV News - CNTV English

China puts 20mln yuan for disaster relief in Gansu CCTV News - CNTV English: The Chinese government has put 20 million yuan into a disaster relief fund after severe rain storms devastated parts of Gansu province earlier this week. The extreme weather has left 37 people dead, and another 19 missing.

How Philanthropy Can Help During Crises - The Giveaway - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

How Philanthropy Can Help During Crises - The Giveaway - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: As 1,300 grant makers gathered in the city to start their annual meeting Sunday, they examined what foundations can do better as cities erupt in crises such natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina inflicted on the Gulf Coast or the damage the recession wracked on Detroit, or the racial tensions that inflamed this city.

How to deal with natural disasters in cities? | Urban Portal | The University of Chicago Urban Network

How to deal with natural disasters in cities? | Urban Portal | The University of Chicago Urban Network: How to deal with natural disasters in cities?

In January of 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake shook the Caribbean nation of Haiti, causing the deaths of more than 200,000 people. The catastrophe heavily affected Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. The largest urban population center of the country was poor and crime stricken even before the earthquake had reduced much of it to rubble. A new report by foreign policy analyst Elizabeth Ferris discusses Port-au-Prince as a case study on how scholars and policy makers should help cities prepare for an

Hunger in Africa: why it’s happening again � Red Cross Blogs

Hunger in Africa: why it’s happening again � Red Cross Blogs: Aid money only goes into the pockets of rich leaders, despots and tyrants, so why bother donating?”

Corruption is an issue in some of the countries where the Red Cross works, so it is understandable that donors want to know where their money is going.

Forging a New Future in Haiti | Habitat World

Forging a New Future in Haiti | Habitat World: In early November 2011, more than 400 international volunteers helped 100 Haitian families, including Erisma’s, build new homes during the 2011 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Named Santo by its new residents, the new community is situated on a former sugarcane field just outside Leogane, Haiti, very close to the epicenter of the 2010 quake. Families moved into their homes in February.

Paul Clolery: The Preparedness and Resilience Foundation Act: Should Government Compete with Aid Organizations?

Paul Clolery: The Preparedness and Resilience Foundation Act: Should Government Compete with Aid Organizations?: It took the charitable sector and the generosity of American citizens to bail people out of the immediate need. It was the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army and dozens of national, regional and local disaster response organizations that mobilized the basics of food and water and maybe a clean pair of underwear.

Japanese professor studying Katrina response - Gulfport - SunHerald.com

Japanese professor studying Katrina response - Gulfport - SunHerald.com: When he visited the Sun Herald on Thursday, Murayama wanted to hear about post-Katrina insurance problems, housing programs, business and charity responses and government assistance offered.

He said the Japanese had no insurance for the tsunami comparable with America’s National Flood Insurance Program, and many residents were without earthquake insurance because they thought their ground was solid.

American Red Cross Responds to Deadly Midwest Tornadoes - MarketWatch

PRESS RELEASE

American Red Cross Responds to Deadly Midwest Tornadoes - MarketWatch: WASHINGTON, April 15, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The American Red Cross is responding across the Midwest where dozens of tornadoes ripped through communities overnight, destroying buildings and downing power lines. Red Cross workers are already operating shelters and providing meals, and more help is on the way.

100 Tornadoes in 24 Hours, but Plenty of Notice - NYTimes.com

100 Tornadoes in 24 Hours, but Plenty of Notice - NYTimes.com: WOODWARD, Okla. — The tornadoes were unrelenting — more than 100 in 24 hours over a stretch of the Plains states. They tossed vehicles and ripped through homes. They drove families to their basements and whipped debris across small towns throughout the Midwest. In some areas, baseball-size hail rained from the sky.

U.S. News - At least five dead as tornadoes hit Midwest and Plains

U.S. News - At least five dead as tornadoes hit Midwest and Plains: Updated at 7:06 a.m. Sunday ET: At least five people have been killed in Oklahoma and a disaster emergency has been declared in Kansas after a severe storm system moving through the Midwest spawned a number of strong tornadoes.

Oklahoma Dept. of Emergency Management information officer Keli Cain confirmed there were five deaths in the Woodward area of north-west Oklahoma.

Tsunami alert for Indian Ocean nations after 8.6-magnitude quake strikes off Indonesia - CBS News

Tsunami alert for Indian Ocean nations after 8.6-magnitude quake strikes off Indonesia - CBS News: Updated at 8:10 a.m. ET

(CBS/AP) BANDA ACEH, Indonesia - A massive earthquake off Indonesia's western coast triggered tsunami fears across the Indian Ocean on Wednesday, sending residents in coastal cities fleeing to high ground in cars and on the backs of motorcycles.

A strong aftershock nearly three hours later sparked a new wave of panic. Indonesia's government responded by issuing a fresh tsunami warning.

BikePortland.org � Blog Archive � The next frontier for cargo bikes: Disaster response

BikePortland.org � Blog Archive � The next frontier for cargo bikes: Disaster response: From the citizen-led Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NET), to an embrace of bikes as disaster response vehicles by City of Portland officials, there's a growing effort in Portland to ensure that bikes play a key role in the response effort when a major earthquake or other disaster strikes. There's even a cargo bike/disaster-themed Pedalpalooza ride in the works

A very long basketball game, played for a cause

A very long basketball game, played for a cause: Chuck Williams of Wildwood, one of the organizers of a 110-hour basketball game intended to break a Guinness record and raise $250,000 for Joplin tornado victims, said some of the 24 players who started their game at 5 a.m. Wednesday had only found an hour here and there to doze off, sometimes while lying on a medical table overlooking the court.

Metro - Harper visits tsunami-devastated area in Japan

Metro - Harper visits tsunami-devastated area in Japan: URIAGE, Japan - Stephen Harper got a first-hand look at the devastation caused by last year's powerful earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan.

The prime minister made a stop Monday in the small town of Yuriage, outside of Sendai.

‘Bo Bikes Bama’ charity ride to benefit relief fund | TuscaloosaNews.com

‘Bo Bikes Bama’ charity ride to benefit relief fund | TuscaloosaNews.com: On April 24, a year after deadly tornadoes devastated the state of Alabama, sports legend Bo Jackson will begin a five-day charity bike ride with a goal of raising $1 million for the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund.

The Northerner : Campus works together to help after tornadoes

The Northerner : Campus works together to help after tornadoes: We as a campus want to respond in the most powerful way,” said Collette Thompson, Scripps Howard Center coordinator.
One of those responses is a special section of the Mayerson Student Philanthropy Project.

Mexico earthquake rattles buildings, residents - BlogPost - The Washington Post

Mexico earthquake rattles buildings, residents - BlogPost - The Washington Post

FEMA Corps forms for disaster response - The Federal Eye - The Washington Post

FEMA Corps forms for disaster response - The Federal Eye - The Washington Post: Called FEMA Corps, the organization will form a new division in AmeriCorps’s National Civilian Community Corps. The five-year agreement provides for a 1,600-member disaster relief organization that will receive work orders from FEMA. It will more than double the NCCC’s ranks.

Japanese earthquake and tsunami first anniversary: PM statement - Number 10

Japanese earthquake and tsunami first anniversary: PM statement - Number 10: Twelve months on and the Japanese people continue to sustain that courage and determination as they rebuild their communities, their homes and their lives. And I greatly admire and respect the way they have overcome the enormous challenges of recovery.

Philanthropy Front and Center-San Francisco: One Year Later: Rebuilding After the Great Tōhoku Earthquake

Philanthropy Front and Center-San Francisco: One Year Later: Rebuilding After the Great Tōhoku Earthquake: One Year Later: Rebuilding After the Great Tōhoku Earthquake

James Gannon is executive director of the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE/USA), which works to strengthen U.S.-Japan cooperation across a range of fields. Laura Cronin, a regular contributor to PhilanTopic, chatted with Gannon recently about rebuilding efforts in quake- and tsunami-affected regions of the country.

7-hour show aids tornado victims | The Courier-Journal | courier-journal.com

7-hour show aids tornado victims | The Courier-Journal | courier-journal.com: The Southern Indiana Tornado Relief Concert raised money for American Red Cross Disaster Relief by charging everyone coming through the door $10 — band members, police officers and media representatives included.

Katherine Marshall: 3/11 Japanese Earthquake - The Untold Stories of Spiritual Response

Katherine Marshall: 3/11 Japanese Earthquake - The Untold Stories of Spiritual Response: The huge earthquake that struck northeast Japan on March 11, 2011 tested a nation and its faith. On this first anniversary we pause to remember that day, with prayer and reflection on what it means. Without warning, on a cold sunny day, an entire region was shaken by one of five most powerful earthquakes ever recorded; then the unimaginable power of a tsunami swept away everything in its path. The prolonged horror of the Fukushima nuclear disaster closed off vast areas and called reliance on nuclear power into question. 3/11 rammed home messages about human vulnerability.

Earthquake relief, one year later: "Shinsai: Theaters for Japan" | SF Arts

Earthquake relief, one year later: "Shinsai: Theaters for Japan" | SF Arts: One year later, with an estimated 300,000 people still homeless from the combined natural and unnatural disasters that shook the Fukushima prefecture, it appears that the crisis is far from being over. Inspired by an impromptu fundraising effort spearheaded by New York-based, Japanese-born actor James Yaegashi, a unique memorial will take place Sun/11 in theaters across the United States.

Entitled “Shinsai,” which means “great earthquake,” the structure of the performances is up to the individual participating theatres — a tactic utilized by the roving world premiere of Suzan-Lori Parks’ 365 Plays —

Japan Society Allocates Over Half of Earthquake Relief Fund with 4th Round of Grants: Press: About: Japan Society

Japan Society Allocates Over Half of Earthquake Relief Fund with 4th Round of Grants: Press: About: Japan Society: Japan Society Allocates Over Half of Earthquake Relief Fund with 4th Round of Grants
March 9, 2012

New York, NY – Japan Society announced today an additional eight grants totaling $1.6 million from its Japan Earthquake Relief Fund (JERF). This latest announcement brings total allocations from the $12.5 million fund to $7.2 million distributed to 19 organizations representing 25 projects that directly serve people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011.

“As we approach the one-year anniversary of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan, we are pleased with the swift allocations and immediate use of the funds for people in need,” said Motoatsu Sakurai, President of Japan Society. “Over half of the money we’ve received has now been allocated. Moving forward, we will continue to look for opportunities to fund effective projects, including those that serve rebuilding and economic recovery in the region.”

Red Cross Launches Social Media Disaster Response Center

Red Cross Launches Social Media Disaster Response Center: The Red Cross and Dell have jointly launched a Digital Operations Center, the first social media-monitoring platform dedicated to humanitarian relief. The Digital Operations Center will equip the Red Cross to better share safety and preparedness tips during natural disasters.

Facebook helps tornado victims co-ordinate disaster relief � Internet � MyBroadband Tech and IT News

Facebook helps tornado victims co-ordinate disaster relief � Internet � MyBroadband Tech and IT News: Residents of the storm-ravaged communities in the Midwest are reaching out to each other, neighbor to neighbor, through social media sites to coordinate disaster relief and share information.

A chain of fast-moving tornadoes spawned by massive thunderstorms cut a swath of destruction from the Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico on Friday, killing at least 39 people and leaving many residents homeless and seeking food, clothing, and shelter.

With phone connections spotty as emergency workers tried to repair downed power lines and clear debris, Facebook pages — accessible by cell phone, mobile device, or computer — have proven a go-to source for communities to assist one another.

Princeton system tracks drought to aid disaster relief

Princeton system tracks drought to aid disaster relief: he problem is that there is often no easy way to get data about water supplies in these areas — water monitoring stations don't exist, or they don't work, or they are simply too dangerous to operate. Groups such as AGRHYMET, an intergovernmental hydrology, agricultural and food security agency based in Niger, often have to rely on far-flung observers, often volunteers, to obtain the information manually.

Disaster relief must be more local and national, Oxfam says | Global development | guardian.co.uk

Disaster relief must be more local and national, Oxfam says | Global development | guardian.co.uk: Western donors and relief groups must build up the capacity of local and national organisations to respond to disasters, or the international humanitarian response system will fail to cope with an expected rise in emergencies, Oxfam warned.

In its report, Crises in a New World Order, Oxfam said international NGOs and the UN provide only part of the answer to crises from Haiti to the Horn of Africa, and future humanitarian action will increasingly rely on new donors and NGOs from around the world and on the governments and civil society of crisis-hit countries.

Customer Analytics: A New Lifeline for the Red Cross and Other Nonprofits? - Knowledge@Wharton

Customer Analytics: A New Lifeline for the Red Cross and Other Nonprofits? - Knowledge@Wharton: When an epic disaster occurs somewhere in the world, images of devastation are conveyed instantly around the world through newspapers, television and the Internet. The result is an outpouring of aid, often in the form of donations to nonprofits like the American Red Cross. But once the dramatic images and headlines begin to fade, donors often disappear as well.

Japan Earthquake & Tsunami | One year: Coming to terms with tragedy

Japan Earthquake & Tsunami | One year: Coming to terms with tragedy: Tomokazu Sato paces over the concrete foundations that are all that remain of the house where he grew up until the age of 18. “It still doesn’t seem real, I can hardly believe this has happened.”

“My grandmother was in the house by herself, because my mother had just gone up the hill to renew her driving license,” says the stocky bearded 35-year-old Japanese Red Cross staff member.

Sex Toys, Winter Coats, And Spanish Flags: The Uselessness Of Post-Disaster Donations | Co.Exist: World changing ideas and innovation

Sex Toys, Winter Coats, And Spanish Flags: The Uselessness Of Post-Disaster Donations | Co.Exist: World changing ideas and innovation: Years of studying disaster relief has led Jose Holguin-Veras to a few simple truths about donations. While tiger costumes and sex toys aren’t going to do much good, it makes people feel better to think they’re helping. But they’re not--they could be doing a lot of damage.

Getting on with it: Bangkok bounces back

Getting on with it: Bangkok bounces back: More than five million people have been affected by Thailand's floods, which the World Bank says has cost the Kingdom some $20.77 billion in damage and $23.31 billion in lost opportunities.Those figures include the devastating damage to architectural treasures in the old Siamese capital of Ayutthaya, north of Bangkok. Ayutthaya is a World Heritage Site and one of the kingdom's prime tourist attractions.

American Red Cross Extends Funding of Critical Medical Care in Haiti

American Red Cross Extends Funding of Critical Medical Care in Haiti: WASHINGTON, Friday, January 06, 2012 — The American Red Cross has committed an additional $3.6 million to underwrite operating expenses at Hospital Bernard Mevs Project Medishare Critical Care Trauma and Rehabilitation Program in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. This increases the total funding of the hospital to $8.6 million since the earthquake struck. The funding will support services until December 2012.

New forms of disaster relief a better alternative to straightforward giving - The Mainichi Daily News

New forms of disaster relief a better alternative to straightforward giving - The Mainichi Daily News: But here, in this desolate town, some locals are undertaking new efforts. In November, Masaki Takahashi, 36, the head of the planning department at long-established fish-processing company Takamasa & Co., proposed a "local buying for local consumption" scheme for relief supplies. With the cooperation of the local association of commerce and industry, he created a system by which those wanting to offer assistance can do so by purchasing goods from companies in the disaster-hit areas. Whoever wants to send aid can contact the local commerce and industry association, which supplies the names and contact information of local companies carrying the goods the callers are hoping to donate.

UN Seeks Relief Aid for Philippine Flood Victims � VOA Breaking News

UN Seeks Relief Aid for Philippine Flood Victims � VOA Breaking News: United Nations official is appealing for more than $28 million in relief aid for the Philippines, saying the area devastated by massive flash floods looks like it was hit by a tsunami.

U.N. humanitarian coordinator Soe Nyunt-U is calling on the international community to supply funding for basic needs, such as clean drinking water, food and emergency shelters, to the hundreds of thousands of victims of the natural disaster in the southern Philippines.

Foreign aid floods Sendong victims - GMA News Online - The Go-To Site for Filipinos Everywhere

Foreign aid floods Sendong victims - GMA News Online - The Go-To Site for Filipinos Everywhere: The governments of Malaysia and Germany have joined the relief efforts for survivors of Tropical Storm Sendong in northern Mindanao by donating money amounting to around P34 million — the latest in the long list of foreign aid being received by the Philippines in the wake of the destructive cyclone.

Clinton Bush Haiti Fund gives $1.5 million in grants to hotel, education, tech sectors - The Washington Post

Clinton Bush Haiti Fund gives $1.5 million in grants to hotel, education, tech sectors - The Washington Post: PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund says it hopes $1.5 million in grants will help Haiti build its hotel, education and technology sectors.

The nonprofit created by former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush said Tuesday it’s given a $264,000 grant to the Oasis Foundation that seeks to train potential hotel workers in hospitality services.

KL youth help clean up Thai homes after floods - General - New Straits Times

KL youth help clean up Thai homes after floods - General - New Straits Times: SAMUT SAKHON (Thailand): About 100 Malaysian youths on Sunday provided assistance to more than 800 households in Zin Somboon housing estate in Thailand's central province here.

American Red Cross Had 137 Big U.S. Relief Operations in 46 States in Disaster-Filled 2011 - MarketWatch

American Red Cross Had 137 Big U.S. Relief Operations in 46 States in Disaster-Filled 2011 - MarketWatch: Throughout the year, the American Red Cross supported the people of Japan and Haiti, while launching 137 domestic disaster relief operations in 46 states and territories to help people affected by fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes across the United States. In addition, major international disasters included the Japan earthquake and tsunami response and the continuing work following the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

Rotary Youth Exchange Students march for flood relief - Pattaya Mail - Pattaya News, Communities, Opinions and much more...

Rotary Youth Exchange Students march for flood relief - Pattaya Mail - Pattaya News, Communities, Opinions and much more...: Nearly 200 youngsters came together for Thailand’s flood victims as the Rotary District 3340 Youth Exchange committee organized a parade through central Pattaya.

Tropical Storm Washi hits the Philippines: Food and medication on their way to disaster zone - AlertNet

Tropical Storm Washi hits the Philippines: Food and medication on their way to disaster zone - AlertNet: Cologne. Malteser International, the Order of Malta’s worldwide relief service, is supporting the emergency relief efforts in the Philippines with an initial 10,000 euros after this weekend’s flash flood left more than 650 people dead and 800 more missing. A sudden rush of water caused by tropical storm Washi caught hundreds of families in the Cagayan de Oro and Iligan provinces on Mindanao Island unaware in the middle of the night on Friday. Today, the Philippine association of the Order of Malta airlifted 1,000 kilograms of food and medication to the disaster zone. The association intends to send another load containing 1,000 kilograms of aid goods tomorrow.

Philippine Flood Relief Shifts to Aid Survivors - NYTimes.com

Philippine Flood Relief Shifts to Aid Survivors - NYTimes.com: Ms. Cabilogan, 33, moved her family to her brother’s house on the other side of town, which was less affected. But tens of thousands of people affected by the floods that devastated the southern Philippines had no such option, and by Monday, officials had turned their focus toward the welfare of the living.

Japan Society Earthquake Relief Fund Allocation Reaches $5.6 Million: Press: About: Japan Society

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Japan Society Earthquake Relief Fund Allocation Reaches $5.6 Million: Press: About: Japan Society: apan Society Earthquake Relief Fund Allocation Reaches $5.6 Million
December 13, 2011

New York, NY -- Japan Society today announced it has earmarked an additional $2.5 million from its Japan Earthquake Relief Fund to seven Japanese, American and international NGOs working on economic revitalization, mental healthcare and child welfare. This latest announcement brings total allocations from the $12.1 million fund to $5.6 million distributed to 13 organizations representing 17 projects.

The latest round of disbursals will support the following organizations:

Linkin Park says disaster victims are “Not Alone” � Inside the United Nations: Welcomed by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who thanked the band for using their music to help those displaced victims of the Indian Ocean Tsunami. Since 2005, the Music for Relief campaign has planted over 955,000 trees and raised upwards of $4 million to help victims of natural disasters around the world. Most recently their efforts have helped those displaced by the earthquake in Haiti.

“We’re partnering up with designers to bring affordable lighting to these people,” said Mike Shinoda, co-lead vocalist of the band to MediaGlobal. “The prices start at about $5 each – I think that’s very cost effective,” lead guitarist Brad Delson quipped. “And they look cool!”

Thai king, marking 84th birthday, call for unity to overcome flooding problem - The Washington Post

Thai king, marking 84th birthday, call for unity to overcome flooding problem - The Washington Post: Thai king, marking 84th birthday, call for unity to overcome flooding problem



By Associated Press, Updated: Monday, December 5, 3:22 AM

BANGKOK — Thailand’s king called for his countrymen to unite in response to the worst floods in half a century. The revered monarch spoke Monday to mark his 84th birthday and amid deep political divisions plaguing the country.

Saint Mary's prof composes 'Music for Haiti' - southbendtribune.com

Saint Mary's prof composes 'Music for Haiti' - southbendtribune.com: effrey Jacob is no ordinary music teacher. The Saint Mary's College professor, a classically trained pianist, recorded the album "Music for Haiti" after witnessing the generous outpouring of help when an earthquake hit Haiti in 2010.

"I began this CD project in the days following the earthquake that destroyed the capital of Haiti and much of the island," he says. "Over 200,000 deaths were recorded along with at least as many serious injuries, making this one of the worst natural disasters in all recorded history. I was deeply moved by the suffering of the Haitians, but also the outpouring of international aid and cooperation, the heroic rescues, the almost unbearably touching scenes of family members reunited, the feelings expressed by many of hope for the future."

Aid agencies urge effort to stop child deaths in Asia floods - AlertNet

Aid agencies urge effort to stop child deaths in Asia floods - AlertNet: ANGKOK (AlertNet) - Aid agencies say some of the 300 child deaths caused by floods in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam - most from drowning - could have been prevented by raising safety awareness and teaching children to swim.

Simple steps that could stop further casualties in these countries, where drowning is already a major child killer, include swimming lessons, educating families about the dangers of playing in floodwaters, and better understanding of potential disasters.

Dell Donates $350,000 for Disaster Relief in Flood Ravaged Thailand - Direct2Dell - Direct2Dell - Dell Community

Dell Donates $350,000 for Disaster Relief in Flood Ravaged Thailand - Direct2Dell - Direct2Dell - Dell Community: To help aid in the recovery, Dell is donating $350,000 to the UNICEF Thailand Disaster Relief. UNICEF is focusing on emergency relief and post-flood assistance to affected children and families in the areas of health, water supply and sanitation, hygiene promotion and education.

$3.8M donated for wildfire relief | KXAN.com

$3.8M donated for wildfire relief | KXAN.com: AUSTIN (AP) - Charity officials said more than $3.8 million has been donated for Central Texas wildfire victims since the blazes began Labor Day weekend.

Helping Thailand's flood victims with squeegees | CNNGo.com

Helping Thailand's flood victims with squeegees | CNNGo.com: Since July, more than 530 people have died in Thailand's floods. In response, volunteers from the foreign and local communities have mobilized a fundraising campaign called "Wipe the Tide."

This month, more than 200 volunteers (and counting) have hit the streets of the capital to take action and support Thailand residents during the severe flooding crisis. Their mission is to help flood victims and rebuild the city’s devastated areas by washing car windshields for donations.

Launched by Bangkok Vanguards, a local grassroots organization, Wipe the Tide began with nine volunteers posted at major traffic intersections. In less than two hours, they raised nearly 27,750 baht.

Aid agencies warn of lack of funds for Pakistan flood relief | Global development | guardian.co.uk

Aid agencies warn of lack of funds for Pakistan flood relief | Global development | guardian.co.uk: Flood relief programmes in Pakistan could be forced to close in the next couple of months because of a lack of funds, aid agencies warned on Wednesday.

Oxfam, Save the Children, Care and Acted (Agency for Technical Co-operation and Development) say programmes could be cut back in the new year unless the donor community increases its response to flooding that has hit the Sindh region since August.

Grants from Bama Rising Fund total $940K in first six months after tornadoes � Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham

Grants from Bama Rising Fund total $940K in first six months after tornadoes � Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham: The Bama Rising Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham is awarding an additional $340,000 to repair, rebuild and furnish homes for 75 families in 12 counties devastated by April 2011 tornadoes. With this third round of grants, this Advised Fund of the Community Foundation has awarded a total of $940,000 in 18 counties out of $2.1 million raised in a June 2011 benefit concert organized and headlined by the band ALABAMA. Current grants are:

Waterlogged Thailand will struggle to prevent future floods | Reuters

Waterlogged Thailand will struggle to prevent future floods | Reuters: As waterlogged Thailand struggles to contain the worst floods in decades, it faces a simple truth: not a whole lot can be done to avoid a repeat disaster in the short term even with a new multi-billion dollar water-management policy.

To raise funds, or not to raise funds. That's the question. | Julie Verhaar | 101fundraising

To raise funds, or not to raise funds. That's the question. | Julie Verhaar | 101fundraising: This year was the first year that I was presenting one of the Great Debates. For those of you who are not familiar with the concept: you have a panel with great members and you present your views and discuss with the audience about a specific issue. Our topic was: Should we be raising funds for disasters occurring in developed economies?

NU Stands with Thailand raises money for flood victims - Campus - The Daily Northwestern - Northwestern University

NU Stands with Thailand raises money for flood victims - Campus - The Daily Northwestern - Northwestern University: The Northwestern Thai Club launched an on-campus campaign called NU Stands with Thailand to raise money for flood victims Tuesday.

The group offered Thai bubble tea to NU students and faculty at a booth outside of the Kellogg School of Management's Jacobs Center in exchange for donations at its first on-campus fundraising event Tuesday. Thai Club began taking donations two weeks ago through an online donation site, which has already raised more than $1,000 toward the group's goal of $5,000. The money will go to victims of the worst floods Thailand has seen in 50 years through several different nonprofit relief organizations, including Thai Red Cross, group members said.

As Floods Drag on in Thailand, Displaced Grow Restless | News | English

As Floods Drag on in Thailand, Displaced Grow Restless | News | English: In Thailand, local aid groups are calling on authorities to better manage and support local communities that are struggling to cope after spending weeks under a meter or more of water.

As the flood waters overtake more communities in urban areas of the country, there are many who are deciding to stay home and protect their belongings from thieves.

Japanese group to host thank-you event for post-disaster aid - CNA ENGLISH NEWS

Japanese group to host thank-you event for post-disaster aid - CNA ENGLISH NEWS: Japanese group to host thank-you event for post-disaster aid
2011/11/01 20:32:03
Taipei, Nov. 1 (CNA) Videos of the powerful March 11 earthquake and devastating tsunami in Japan, as well as footage of Taiwan's post-disaster help, will be shown at an event in Taipei next month as a thank-you gesture to the country, the Japanese event organizers said Tuesday.

Crowdsourcing engineers disaster relief in Pakistan

Crowdsourcing engineers disaster relief in Pakistan: Pakreport was created in July 2010 by a group of organisations including relief agencies, civil engineers, crowdsourcing software developers and telecoms providers. Based on a customisation of the open source Ushahidi platform for information gathering and visualisation, it allowed people on the ground to send text message disaster reports and request for assistance using the sp

Aid Groups Join in Text-to-Give Campaign for Relief to East Africa

Aid Groups Join in Text-to-Give Campaign for Relief to East Africa: We've been hearing about the famine and humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa for months. With more than 13 million people now needing emergency aid just to survive, it has been hard to understand why the American public has been so slow to support the many international aid organizations working on the crisis.

It took a survey by the Ad Council in September to reveal that 52% of the general public say they haven't heard or read anything about the terrible drought, resulting famine, and human tragedy

Charity game raises more than 100K for Joplin tornado relief

Charity game raises more than 100K for Joplin tornado relief: At 5:41 p.m. Sunday night, the sellout crowd at the One State, One Spirit Classic and both the University of Missouri and the Division II Missouri Southern State men's basketball teams observed a moment of silence.

Turkey Accepts Offers of Earthquake Aid | News | English

Turkey Accepts Offers of Earthquake Aid | News | English: The government has now accepted offers of help from 30 countries around the world, including Israel. Relations between Israel and Turkey have been strained since Israeli commandos raided a Gaza-bound aid flotilla last year, killing nine Turkish activists.

Turkish President Abdullah Gul welcomed the help. He says nearly 50 presidents called with offers of help and that the Foreign Ministry will reach out as soon as it is determined there is a need. President Gul says Turkey did not initially make a call for the international community's help but later reversed its decision.

Turkey earthquake toll passes 600

Turkey earthquake toll passes 600: Turkey has accepted help from dozens of countries, including Israel and Armenia, both states with which it has frosty relations.

The United States is the latest country to offer help.

Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay thanked the international community "for its concern".

Thailand Floods Pass Peak, Raising Hopes in Bangkok | News | English

Thailand Floods Pass Peak, Raising Hopes in Bangkok | News | English: Thailand's rain-swollen Chao Phraya River passed its peak stage Monday, raising hopes that central Bangkok will be spared the flooding that has already inundated much of the city's northern and western suburbs.

Thailand: Floods and Social Media � Global Voices

Thailand: Floods and Social Media � Global Voices: Many parts of Thailand are still flooded as the country continues to face the worst flooding disaster in the past half century. The flood waters are higher in the provinces although Bangkok remains under threat especially its low-lying areas.

Thailand Flood Relief Fundraising walk on Dean Street - Albury - Events - The Border Mail

Thailand Flood Relief Fundraising walk on Dean Street - Albury - Events - The Border Mail: The Thai Buddhist monk from the temple in South Albury will walk for alms round and lead fundraising volunteers for flood victims in Thailand.

The walk is aim to show the Spirit of Kindness and Generosity of people in Albuty to our friends the other part of the world who are in need.