Millions of dollars have been generously donated to the American Red Cross and its relief efforts in Japan, but what happens to the money once you make your pledge?
Much of the world has reached out to Japan following the March 11, earthquake and tsunami including thousands from Hawaii.
"Together the people of Hawaii have donated over $3 million to the people of Japan," said Coralie Matayoshi of the American Red Cross.
Hawaii residents have also contributed through fundraisers like the Kokua for Japan Benefit Concert which raised 1.6 million.
But does the money reach those in need?
In Ishinomaki, one of the hardest hit areas in Miyagi prefecture many shelters have received the bare minimum in food and supplies.
"As far as food, produce, fruits, eggs and beef – because its really cold – under garments for the men and women and socks are probably the biggest needs," said city councilman Yukiteru Moriyama.
"The Japanese government is really in charge of the shelters and the feeding of the people we’re helping in other way especially with medical supplies, blankets and clothing," Matayoshi said.
Besides food and shelter, Matayoshi says the Japanese government is supplying 70,000 pre-fabricated homes.
"But it needs appliances like refrigerators and microwaves and even rice cookers and so what the American Red Cross is doing is helping to supply the appliances," Matayoshi said. "Every country deals with disasters differently and what the American Red Cross does is we try to leverage the resources and the expertise to do what is needed most and try not to duplicate efforts."
Matayoshi says the American Red Cross has donated $130-million to the Japanese Red Cross to fund 600 medical teams who are providing services for 50,000 people. She assures donors every dollar is spent wisely.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
