The American Red Cross stands ready and willing to assist following the magnitude 8.9 earthquake in Japan and the resulting tsunami that affected other countries in the Pacific region.

The Japanese Red Cross Society has extraordinary disaster response capabilities and has mobilized 11 teams to heavily-damaged communities to provide assessments and first aid and prepare to supply emotional support and relief. The American Red Cross is in communication through its global partners with the Pacific nations that sustained the most damage and stands ready to provide assistance as needed.

Locally, individuals may donate to the Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami online at www.redcross.org or may donate $10 by texting REDCROSS to 90999. Gifts to the American Red Cross will support the disaster relief efforts to help those affected by the earthquake in Japan and tsunami throughout the Pacific.

Individuals may also access the Red Cross Safe and Well website at www.redcross.org. The website is a secure and easy-to-use online tool that helps families connect during emergencies like earthquakes and tsunamis.

The St. Joseph County (Ind.) Chapter will continue to provide updated information online at www.stjoe-redcross.org. The latest information will also be provided on Facebook; search “The American Red Cross of St. Joseph County” or “Red Cross South Bend.”