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March 16, 2011

	This publication is your opportunity to receive regular updates on the work and the issues that I have been involved with, both in Harrisburg and throughout our community. Please visit my website, where you will find a comprehensive overview of our work, various phone numbers and contact information to assist you in solving problems, opportunities to volunteer and assist us in our programs and opportunities to give your feedback.

Helping the People of Japan in the Face of Tragedy

On March 11, 2011, a huge earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit Japan, causing tremendous destruction and devastation to the country and its people. The earthquake, registering an 8.9 on the Richter scale, was the 5th largest earthquake ever recorded.

President Obama, during his news conference Friday, opened up about his personal feelings toward the earthquake in Japan and noted that he is heartbroken, especially as someone who grew up in Hawaii, which has strong ties to Japanese culture.

We stand with the entire world in offering our deepest condolences and pledge our support to assist so many men, women and children in great need during this tragic time.

So often I reach out to all of you because of your generosity and compassion when our friends and neighbors need help. This time is no different. While the people of Japan may be a distance away, the pain, loss and sorrow they are feeling now is no different than what we feel when we experience hardships.

Many organizations and funds immediately mobilized to provide relief to those affected by the disaster. Below, please find the various organizations reaching out to assist Japan. I would ask that you consider donating so that these organizations can continue to be a valuable resource and support to the people of Japan.

In response to the quake, the Red Cross has already launched efforts in Japan. Visit Redcross.org or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 from your phone.

A woman reacts amidst debris caused by Friday's massive earthquake and the ensuing tsunami, in Natori, northern Japan Sunday, March 13, 2011. (AP Photo/Asahi Shimbun, Toshiyuki Tsunenari) Click here to view more pictures.

Save the Children stands ready to meet the needs of children who are most vulnerable in a disaster. Donations to its Children's Emergency Fund will support outreach.

International Medical Corps is responding to the health needs of the disaster's victims. They are putting together relief teams, as well as supplies, and are in contact with partners in Japan and other affected countries to assess needs and coordinate their activities. To donate or learn about other ways you can contribute to its medical response, visit Internationalmedicalcorps.org. Also, text MED to 80888 from any mobile phone to give $10.

Salvation Army personnel are organizing efforts in Tokyo and will soon send a team to help the severely damaged city of Sendai, Japan. To contribute to earthquake relief, text 'JAPAN' or 'QUAKE' to 80888 to make a $10 donation or visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is sending two three-person teams to the Iwate and Miyagi prefectures in Japan. To learn more about the organization's efforts or make a donation, visit Doctorswithoutborders.org.

Unbelievable footage captures the instant the tsunami hit Japan.

On March 15, the International Fund for Animal Welfare will be deploying a team to assess needs regarding animal rescue. Major disasters require long-term planning and a concerted effort between non-governmental organizations and governmental ranks to ensure that the greatest number of animals and humans benefit from the intervention. They are encouraging support through donations, which will be used to buy pet food, veterinary supplies, vaccines and other necessities for animals needing help.

I know these are difficult, economic times for so many, and yet, you continue to find ways to give back. Thank you for doing for others and giving back to those in need.

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