TRAVERSE CITY -- With more than 4,000 dead, thousands more missing, and the nuclear crisis escalating, the devastation continues in Japan. After seeing the widespread destruction, many of us want to give relief and comfort to the millions suffering.
7&4's Kate Fox has more on what you can do to make a difference.
Misaeng Liggett lives in Elk Rapids with her family but to her…home is Japan. It's where she was raised and has spent the majority of her life. The now devastated nation is also where her closet family and friends are trying to survive in a world of destruction.
Liggett says, "They told me roads me roads very bad so that truck could not go through to rescue people or to bring some food or water to them, bridges are all collapsed."
Liggett says while they do need things like fuel, water, and food it's money donations that will provide the best relief right now.
Executive Director of the northwest Michigan American Red Cross Kevin Bavers agrees and says there's been an out pouring of support from people wanting to send items to Japan.
He says although it's appreciated it's too much of a challenge to deliver, ship, and store the supplies. It's money that will provide the best relief.
Executive Director of Northwest Michigan American Red Cross Kevin Bayers says, "The people on the scene are able to determine where that can be best utilized at the moment in time-- money goes to the economy that's been destroyed so local stores and businesses not getting traffic can get business."
Wanda Repke is an educator at the MSU Extension and says if you're really looking to give comfort and friendship to Japan you should consider the statewide 4-H Labo Japanese Exchange program this summer. It brings 55 Japanese students into the state of Michigan to live with host families for four weeks.
Repke says, "Right now there are still 32 Japanese students who need to find host families..."
For more information on the 4-H Labo Japanese Exchange Program CLICK HERE.
For more information on how to make a donation through the American Red Cross CLICK HERE.
