Japan > Tokyo > The American School in Japan, Chofu Campus (Tokyo)

Dear Friends of ASIJ,
During the past few days we have received an outpouring of support and concern from friends of the ASIJ community around the world regarding the earthquake and tsunami disaster in northern Japan. We know that many people have a part of their heart in Japan and feel incredible compassion for the events that have taken place and the continuing aftermath. It means so much to us to receive your support and encouragement during this time.

The situation at ASIJ-Tokyo
When the earthquake struck, all ASIJ students, faculty and staff safely evacuated. We are also fortunate to report that there was no structural damage to any buildings on either campus, and no injuries. However, due to damage to power plants in northeast Japan, Tokyo has scheduled rotating power cuts, fewer trains are running and fuel supplies are somewhat unreliable. As a result, we discontinued classes through to our Spring Break, but plan to resume school on March 28. We feel safe and positive about continuing school as we find the best ways to work within the limitations of our situation. Our faculty has connected with their students and they are connected to their classes virtually so learning continues. Some faculty members have left early for Spring Break. Many remain in Tokyo with their families.
What can I do for the hard-hit Tohoku region?
As most everyone in the world has now seen, large parts of the east coast of the Tohoku region of Japan north of Tokyo have been absolutely devastated by the tsunami, including the damage to a number of nuclear power plants there. First responders arrived on the scene quickly, including the U.S. military, and are providing rescue and medical care. Second responders have also begun delivering food, fresh water, clothes and supplies to shelters.
Many friends of ASIJ have contacted us asking “How can I help?” Various relief experts and aid organizations have advised us that what are most needed at this time are financial donations. There will surely come a time when physical goods and/or manpower may be needed to continue to rebuild the affected areas. However, at this point the situation is changing daily and professional emergency relief organizations need continuous financial support to get the goods they determine are needed on the ground and to continue their operations.
We have been researching the best options at this time and they include the Japanese Red Cross Society, the American Red Cross Fund for Japan, Doctors Without Borders, Habitat for Humanity, Global Giving and International Medical Corps.
ASIJ is also accepting donations to the school account below. We will hold, disperse and report the use of these funds as we learn what is really needed, where shortages are occurring, the best avenues to help the hardest hit areas and the organizations doing the best job of helping the people of Japan. Bank transfers can be made to:
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Ajisai Branch
4-9-2, Kokuryocho, Chofu-shi, Tokyo, Japan 182-0022
Checking Account No. 4970998
Account Name: The American School in Japan Foundation
SWIFT Code: SMBCJPJT

三井住友銀行
あじさい支店
東京都調布市国領町４－９－２　郵便番号１８２－００２２
当座預金
口座名　　アメリカン　スクール　イン　ジャパン　フアウンデイシヨン

We thank you again for your heartwarming support during the past few days.