The devastation that has hit Japan with both an earthquake, tsunami and of course their emergency concerning their nuclear reactors is almost too hard to comprehend. As with many disasters that have come recently such as the earthquake in Haiti and the tsunami that struck in the Indian Ocean killing over 230,000 people, the scam artist have come out in droves to separate us from our money and not get it to the people who need it.
Doing some research on a paper I am writing, I came across several organizations that are legitimate and who will make sure that money or other donations get to the Japanese people who need it.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has made it very easy to donate to the Japanese earthquake victims. You can go to their website and donate or you can send a text-message REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Save the Children
This organization is very involved in the welfare of children and the families affected by the Japanese earthquake. You can also donate through their website or text JAPAN or TSUNAMI to 20222 to donate $10 to their relief organization.
International Medical Corps
The International Medical Corps is getting relief teams together as well as supplies to Japan. You can donate through their website or text MED to 80888 to donate $10 towards their relief efforts.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is one of the oldest and most respected relief organizations in the world. They have had a presence in Japan since 1895 and have been operating nonstop since the crisis began. You can contact the website to donate or text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 to make a $10 donation.
Doctors Without Borders
This international group has teams of medical personnel in Japan since the earthquake and is taking donations through this number: 1-88-392-0392.
There are many more organizations that are legitimate that are accepting donations to help the people of Japan through this crisis. When in doubt about donating to an organization, just check the web and look for any complaints or donate through an organization that you know well.