Ocala, Fla. (March 17, 2011) - In the wake of the earthquake and tsunami on March 11, thousands of Japanese citizens are dead or missing and tens of thousands lack food, shelter and water. Ongoing concerns with nuclear power plants and the release of radiation are adding to the devastation. Our human interconnectedness makes this tragedy hit close to home.

The Central Community Chest of Japan, part of the United Way worldwide network, is actively working to meet the immediate needs of the people of Japan and those affected by the disaster through direct relief and recovery efforts. The Central Community Chest of Japan coordinates the Japanese Council for Disaster Relief Project for Volunteers in collaboration with a coalition of Japanese nonprofit organizations.

The Central Community Chest of Japan has promoted national welfare throughout the country for more than 60 years. Central Community Chest of Japan is a national organization with a vast network of local members. There are 47 Prefectural Community Chests, one located in each Prefecture, and there are 2,217 district offices and branch offices located in municipalities throughout the country. Marion County residents can donate on-line to the Central Community Chest of Japan at https://give.liveunited.org/page/contribute/CCCJ.

For more information, visit www.liveunited.org.  

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