In the wake of a 9.0 earthquake off the coast of Sendai, Japan -- thousands have been found dead and thousands more left devastated due to a tsunami that rolled through the Miyagi prefecture following the earthquake.
The 3rd largest economy in the world is in the midst of tremendous distress. All industries has been affected following the 9.0 earthquake wrecking oil rigs, factories and nuclear powerplants and sending rolling blackouts throughout various prefectures throughout the nation.
The Tokyo metropolis of 13 million people came to a standing halt after it's sophisticated train system was shut down (they very rarely shut down the trains) leaving many stranded. The tsunami made "waves" all the way over to London's FTSE with Tokyo stocks sliding.
Giving Back
The Japanese consumer has been the sought after darling by most of the world of fashion and travel. The US and Japan account for about a third of LVMH's revenue worldwide but it's now time for the world to give back...
Japan has been one of the biggest donors in development relief and bilateral aid to other countries. I, myself, have experienced genuine Japanese hospitality many times over.
If you have experienced the warmth or generosity of the Japanese people and have any capacity we urge you to give through online channels such as PayPal.
Who To Give To | The Red Cross and Save the Children
(from http://money.cnn.com/2011/03/11/pf/japan_earthquake_relief/index.htm)
Patrick Rooney, executive director of the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, recommends giving to reputable aid organizations, like the Red Cross and Save the Children, because those organizations already have a presence in the impacted area and their response will likely be faster and more efficient than other organizations that are not on the ground.
"They have the experience and infrastructure necessary to provide help," he said.
The Japanese Red Cross has already deployed 900 rescue workers to the affected region today and the American Red Cross has emergency responders on standby, Koppel added.
Lady Gaga is also selling "WE PRAY FOR JAPAN" wristbands on her website here.
ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO JAPAN RELIEF EFFORTS
