Letter from British Red Cross (7 May 2011)

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We have received the following letter from Alexis Fairclough from the British Red Cross:

"On behalf of the British Red Cross I would like to thank you for your support in organising the Tesco collection in Bidston Moss which raised £3488.03 and for the collection tins placed in local businesses across Wirral to support our immediate response to the biggest earthquake in its history which struck Japan on 11 March, measuring a massive 9.0 on the Richter scale. The earthquake struck 250 miles northeast of Tokyo and triggered a devastating tsunami with up to 38 metre waves, which swept away everything in its path. More than 13,000 people have been confirmed dead so far and 14,000 are still missing or unaccounted for.

"The Japanese Red Cross has been working on the ground since the disaster began, mobilising some 4,000 doctors, nurses and support staff. It is providing first aid and health care through mobile clinics, and support to the most vulnerable communities in the worst affected areas of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima. So far, 34,430 patients have been treated. Counselling services have been provided to a further 1,600 people, who are experiencing trauma or have suffered the loss of a family member.

"Thanks to your amazing contribution to the appeal, the Japanese Red Cross is able to support victims of the tsunami with cash grants. These will be given to victims who have lost immediate family members; families whose homes were destroyed by the earthquake, tsunami or resulting fires; families whose homes were severely damaged; and households who have been required to evacuate. It will equip up to 70,000 transitional shelters with a package of essential home appliances, including a washing machine, rice cooker and refrigerator, benefiting some 280,000 people.

"The Japanese Red Cross has so far mobilised 14,000 volunteers who are providing mobile kitchens, distributing food and relief items, directing people to evacuation centres and helping people recover homes that have been buried in mud.

"We could not continue to support those affected by this disaster without your support. Thanks also
to your friends for helping to raise money for this appeal.

"Thank you again for helping us to be there when it matters most."

Alexis Fairclough
Senior Community Fundraiser - Merseyside