It's hard to know where to start the rebuilding process in a town as thoroughly devastated as Shizugawa, but Oasis Life Care has an idea; leather crafting. For over six months, survivors have been meeting weekly to produce elegant leather crafts and accessories that are sold throughout Japan and all over the world. But more importantly, the gatherings provide a place to socialize, to share stories and needs, and to find support in moving towards healing and hope.

"All of us have lost houses, family, friends... but we still need to find a way to make a living somehow," says Suzuki Nobuko, a resident of Shizugawa. "The Oasis people have given us something that anybody can participate in, and that everybody can be proud of."

Oasis Life Care staff Kokubun Keisuke is grateful for the community and fellowship that takes place at the Shizugawa Leather Craft events. He also sees the potential for growth, as major department stores have already been requesting the Shizugawa Leather Craft products. "The best thing people can do to support us is to purchase our products, or to send encouraging words to the survivors who are making the leather crafts. We would also love advice from anybody who has expertise in leather, or from marketing and sales professionals."

To purchase Shizugawa Leather Craft products or to send encouragement, please directly contact Oasis Life Care at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Unfortunately, Oasis Life Care does not currently ship Shizugawa products overseas.
Oasis Life Care website: http://oasislifecare.org
Or, visit tinyurl.com/shizugawajp to view samples of the beautiful accessories.

To support CRASH Japan partner programs such as Shizugawa Leather Craft, click here to donate.