Urgent Relief Fund for Wajima Earthquake Victims

Hi My name is Asako Hayashi Takakura, Japanese faculty at UCLA.

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to you with an urgent appeal for help on behalf of a dear friend and former student, Walt Tsushima who has been deeply affected by the recent earthquake in Machino, Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture Japan.

Walt (Tsushima san) graduated from UCLA in 2002 and went on to participate in the JET program, where he not only shared his love for the Japanese language but also found love himself. For the past 17 years, Walt and his family have lived in Fukui prefecture.

Unfortunately, the recent earthquake has devastated Wajima, particularly Machino, where Walt's wife's family has a house. Tragically, their home has been completely destroyed, and the town is now isolated due to landslides and broken roads, making it inaccessible by regular means. To make matters worse, essential services like electricity, gas, internet, and telephone lines are down, leaving the residents in desperate conditions.

The affected families, including Walt's, have lost everything and are in urgent need of basic necessities such as blankets, clothes, and food.

I am reaching out to our community for support. Your generous donation will go directly towards providing immediate relief to Walt's family and others who are facing this humanitarian crisis in Machino.

No amount is too small, and every contribution matters. Let's come together and show our solidarity during this challenging time. Your support will make a significant difference in helping these families rebuild their lives.

Thank you for your compassion and generosity. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those who need it the most.