Awareness, preparedness and money for the relief effort are behind a fundraising event for the victims of the Japanese tsunami and earthquake.
The event is being held at Echo Centre this Saturday, April 2 from 1–4 p.m. and is being hosted by the Alberni Valley Twinning Society.
Other national and world events are overshadowing the fallout from the earthquake and tsunami, event spokesperson Gillian Trumper said.
“The federal election and events in Libya have pushed Japan a little further down the public consciousness,” she said. “But their needs remain very real.”
A silent auction and bake sale are being held that include items from several local businesses.
Crafts including origami and Japanese character lessons are being taught.
And emergency supplies in the event of a tsunami or earthquake will be available for people to buy.
A presentation on earthquake preparedness is scheduled as well.
“People need to be aware—it’s not like someone else is going to prepare for them,” Trumper said.
“We of all people should be aware of the dangers of a tsunami.”
Donations are being accepted at the event in the form of cash, Visa, Mastercard or debit, Trumper said.
All event proceeds are being sent directly to the Japanese Red Cross. “We know it will be put to immediate use.”
Trumper was mayor when Port Alberni was subject to a tsunami warning in the mid 1980s and called the effort “a good wakeup call”.
“It just might be us one day,” she said.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com