Japan Earthquake Updates

March 12, 2011

General Council Office staff have now heard from all United Church overseas personnel in Japan. They are still experiencing aftershocks but feel confident they will remain safe. Partners based in Tokyo are also reporting their personnel are safe. They are facing communications challenges within Japan and are anxiously waiting on news of family and friends. Colleagues at the Asian Rural Institute, a United Church partner based in rural Japan north of Tokyo, are safe as well. They are sheltering in a building that is structurally very sound.

The situation in Japan remains fluid. The extent of the devastation and damage is still not fully known. Attention is now also on the nuclear power plants in the quake area and the possibility of serious damage that could present dangerous consequences for people living near them. The United Church continues to monitor the situation closely and is ready to offer support as we are able to United Church personnel and partners.

While Japan has a well-developed emergency response protocol and capacity, the magnitude of the disaster presents serious challenges. Any donations received at the General Council Office, designated for earthquake relief and reconstruction in Japan, will be gratefully received and used to support United Church partners in this work. Donations can be made online or mailed to

• The United Church of Canada
  3250 Bloor St. West, Suite 300
  Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4

Please hold our friends, colleagues, and all those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan in your thoughts and prayers.

For more information contact:

• Pat Elson
  Program Coordinator, People in Partnership, Asia Partnerships
  Partners in Mission Unit
  Tel: 416-231-7680 ext. 4016
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 4016
  E-mail: Pat Elson
• Gary Kenny
  Program Coordinator, Emergency Response and International Development
  Partners in Mission Unit
  Tel: 416-231-7680, ext. 4051
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 4051
  E-mail: Gary Kenny