B’nai B’rith International has opened its disaster relief fund to help the victims of the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan on the afternoon of March 11. The 8.9 magnitude earthquake, which hit 80 miles off the coast of Japan, is the world’s fifth-largest since 1900, causing waves as high as 33 feet to hit Japan’s shores, resulting in devastating destruction and flooding. At this time there are 137 confirmed dead, with 539 injured and 351 missing.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out the people of Japan,” B’nai B’rith International President Dennis W. Glick said. “We hope the humanitarian aid we offer will assist in meeting vital needs as the rescue and recovery effort continues. The pictures coming out of Japan so far display a frightening demonstration of nature’s fury.”

B’nai B’rith has been engaged in international disaster relief since 1865. The B’nai B’rith International Disaster Relief Fund has provided aid to populations affected by natural and man-made catastrophes around the world, including the Haitian and Chilean earthquakes of 2010.

“Humanitarian aid and disaster relief are a vital part of our global mission,” B’nai B’rith Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin said. “We must do everything possible to assist the victims of this catastrophe.”

To help, donate online at our secure website: http://bbi.convio.net/site/Donation2?df_id=1520&1520.donation=form1

Donations may also be made by mail to: B’nai B’rith International Disaster Relief Fund, Attn: Japan Earthquake, 2020 K Street, NW, 7th Floor, Washington, D.C., 20006