On Sunday, May 6, a tornado tore through the city of Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture. One person was killed and dozens were injured. Around 200 homes were destroyed and 24,000 houses lost access to electricity.

As soon as possible four CRASH leaders went to the Tsukuba area to evaluate how to respond to the situation. Like many small towns in Japan, the roads are very narrow and with many power lines down and debris, it is difficult to get into the affected area. At the local volunteer center our team saw a map of the town. The map showed that the tornado traveled along the main road, cutting a swathe about 500 meters wide through the center of town. The CRASH leaders met with local pastors who have already worked with CRASH in Tohoku. They found that these pastors are eager to reach out to their own community with the compassion of Christ. Due to the expressed need for help, CRASH Japan will be partnering with local churches in the Tsukuba area to bring help and hope to those who are hurting!

We are accepting donations for Tsukuba Tornado Relief. For overseas donors, at the moment we can only accept wire transfers for designated gifts. This funding will be used to provide:

• Equipment and supplies for local churches to use to help survivors

• Volunteer coordination

• Training for trauma care

• Running at least one OperationSAFE program for children

Our funding goal for this project is 1,000,000 yen. We hope you will continue supporting CRASH Japan financially and prayerfully.