Providing Equipment to Community Centers in Hitoyoshi and Kuma Areas

28th June 2022

Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, has been providing equipment to community centers in Hitoyoshi and Kuma areas of Kumamoto Prefecture. By the end of May, PBV had provided equipment to 26 out of 30 planned areas in Hitoyoshi City and 8 out of 9 areas in Kuma Village.

Delivered equipment to a community center to help rebuild a damaged community

27th May, 2022

• ©PBV
• ©PBV
• ©PBV

Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, has been providing equipment and supplies to the affected community centers. in April, they donated additional pots, pipe chairs, kitchen utensils, etc. to Ohkaki Town, Hitoyoshi City, and delivered happi coats (for adults and children), cupboards, stoves, fans, etc. to Konya Town.
They also donated storage sheds and other items to the Nakaya and Tomojiri districts in Kuma Village.

Equipment Provided to Community Centers in Hitoyoshi and Kuma Districts, Kumamoto

　　　

28th April 2022

　　　

• (c) Megumi Japan
• (c) Megumi Japan

　　　

Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, has been providing equipment to community centers in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village to create a better environment for communication among residents. Also they cleaned the windows, sashes, and stages at a community center in Kouya-machi.

　　　

Restoration of Damaged Community Centers is in Progress

　　　

March 29, 2022

　　　

As reported in last month, the restoration of the community centers by Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, is progressing with the cooperation of local residents and student groups.PBV will provide tailored support to each region and issue.

　　　

Support for restoration of damaged community centers

24th February 2022

• Preliminary work for renovation of community center ©Megumi Japan

Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, has been providing support for community revitalization in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village, Kumamoto Prefecture, which were damaged by the torrential rains in July 2020. One of these support activities includes restoration and distribution of equipment to the community center, which is a meeting place for local residents. PBV continues to work together with local residents to restore the community center, such as by assisting with work until renovation work is completed.

Click here to see the PBV's post on SNS　(Japanese Only)

Support for Community Revitalization among Residents by PBV

19th January 2022

In Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village in Kumamoto Prefecture, where heavy rain caused severe damage in July 2020, community activities that used to take place before the disaster have stopped, and there is a need to improve the environment for gathering places. PBV, a JPF member NGO, is supporting the restoration of community centers, distributing equipment, and providing psychological support by holding day salons.

On-site interviews by secretariat staff

16th December 2021

• 

As a JPF secretariat project in support of the people affected by the torrential rain and floods in July 2020, JPF cooperated with the Kumamoto Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KVOAD) and other organizations to provide household appliances and other daily necessities to needy households that were particularly affected by the torrential rains through door-to-door visits of the people affected by disaster who are living as evacuees in the affected municipalities of Kumamoto.

From December 14 to 15, JPF secretariat staff visited community support centers in Kuma Village, Hitoyoshi City, Yatsushiro City and other areas to held interviews. Many of the counselors who actually went door-to-door to the affected people door-to-door said, "We were able to deepen our relationship of trust with the affected people through the support of home appliances" and, "We were able to discover the potential support needs of the affected people ".

PBV to Support Community Revitalization

19th November 2021

PBV, a JPF member NGO, has been distributing equipment to community centers in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village in Kumamoto Prefecture, which were severely damaged by the torrential rains in July 2020. They are also providing support for the resumption of salon activities using community centers.

ADRA's Support in Kumamoto Prefecture

October 2021

More than a year has passed since the torrential rains of July 2020, which caused great damage in the Kyushu region. Hitoyoshi City in Kumamoto Prefecture, the hardest hit area, was even said to be "like the aftermath of a tsunami". In addition, due to the Corona disaster, not enough volunteers were able to come to the city, which prolonged the process of cleaning up and restoring houses after the flood.

ADRA, a JPF member NGO, provided assistance in Hitoyoshi City and the surrounding area in Kumamoto Prefecture, which was completed in June. Click here for a report by ADRA about their relief activities.
One year after the torrential rain disaster, Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture is now

Equipment Support for Affected Community Centers

September 2021

The Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, provided support in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village in Kumamoto Prefecture, which were severely damaged by the torrential rains in July 2020. They are providing equipment to community centers to help rebuild communities.
The equipment to be used at the community center is being delivered. Immediately after the desks were delivered, they were used as a place for students to interview residents and for board meetings. They are supporting the restoration of the community center to connect the community.

For more information, please visit
https://www.facebook.com/PBVsaigai/posts/6247562401984809

PBV supports provision of equipment to community centers

August 2021

JPF member NGO Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) is implementing a project to provide equipment to community halls in Hitoyoshi City, Kuma Village, and other areas in Kumamoto Prefecture affected by the torrential rains in Kyushu, with the aim of revitalizing the communities.

More than a year has passed since the torrential rain disaster, and the chairperson of the community center, who has been continuously working with PBV to clean up and clear the community center, said, "At first, I thought, 'It's hopeless. I didn't even know where to start.
Many volunteers helped us remove large household items and mud, but we were worried about restoring the community center because the town had no funds and we didn't know if the residents would come back. Now that they've cleaned it up so well, we can really see where we're going".

Click here for PBV's report

One year after the heavy rain in July 2020

4th July 2021

One year has passed since the torrential rains that caused great damage in Kyushu and other areas, especially in Kumamoto. Once again, we pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and express our sympathy to those affected by the disaster.
JPF and its member NGOs have been providing much-needed support by carefully utilizing donations and support from individuals and corporations. JPF and its member NGOs will continue to provide support to help the people affected by the disaster to rebuild their lives and communities.
Yesterday, July 3rd, a mudslide occurred in Atami City, which caused extensive damage. We hope that the people who are still unaccounted for are safe and that the continuous heavy rains will not cause new disasters in many areas.

One year after the torrential rain disaster in Kumamoto (NHK News in Japanese)
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20210704/k10013118911000.html

Disaster Relief by PBV - Providing Equipment to Community Centers and Assembly Halls

21st June 2021

The Peace Boat Disaster Relief Center (PBV), a JPF member NGO, is providing equipment support to community halls and meeting places in the affected areas of Kumamoto Prefecture, which was hit by the torrential rains in July 2020, to help rebuild the community.
Provision of equipment to community centers that have completed renovations is underway.
Click here for the report

ADRA's project to support the restoration of community centers in areas affected by the torrential rains in Kyushu

31st May 2021 19:00

• Meeting at Archillescue office © ADRA *Taken in 2020

ADRA, a JPF member NGO, is collaborating with Archillescue and other organizations in Hitoyoshi City, which was hit by the torrential rains in July 2020, to enable the temporary use of a damaged community center (the project was extended until mid-June).
In Kumamoto Prefecture, since the measures for prevention of spread of the coronavirus have been applied for about a month from the middle of May, we are conducting support activities while taking countermeasures for infection.

PBV to Support Resumption of Salon Activities

27th April 2021 8:00

• Socializing at the wisteria blossom viewing party ©PBV
• Wisteria blossom viewing party ©PBV

Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV), a JPF member NGO, is providing support for the resumption of community center use and salon activities in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, and other areas affected by the torrential rains of July 2020.

In the Kakimoto area of Hitoyoshi City, a wisteria blossom viewing party was held as a salon activity, with the participation of local residents, staff from local council of social welfare, and student volunteers.

Click here for PBV's report (In Japanese)

JPF Secretariat’s Home Appliance Provision Project

30th March 2021 21:00

• Provision of household appliances for temporary housing residents ©KVOAD

As a JPF secretariat project in support of the people affected by the torrential rain and floods in July 2020, we are conducting relief activities in cooperation with the Kumamoto Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KVOAD) and Japan Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (JVOAD).

As part of our support for temporary housing residents and home-based evacuees, we are providing household appliances and other daily necessities to about 800 households living as evacuees in the affected municipalities in Kumamoto Prefecture, including Hitoyoshi City, Yatsushiro City, Ashikita Town, and Yamae Village. The provision is through door-to-door visits by the local Community Support Center.

ADRA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting Repairs for Community Center

19th February 2021 7:00

• Volunteers cleaning up a house ©ADRA (*Photographed in 2020)

JPF member NGO ADRA Japan is continuing to provide volunteer support for building rescue efforts in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where there were damages from the floods in July 2020. In February 2021, ADRA worked with another organization on a flooded community center building so that it could reopen for temporary use.

As Kumamoto Prefecture has declared its own state of emergency, we will continue our support activities while giving the utmost consideration for the prevention of new coronavirus infection.

PBV’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Equipment provision for community centers and assembly halls

27th January 2021 17:30

JPF member NGO Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) has been implementing an assistance project mainly in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village, both in Kumamoto Prefecture, where there were damages from the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in July 2020. PBV is providing equipment to community centers there to facilitate community revitalization.

PBV has been conducting briefing sessions in the affected municipalities, ascertaining the needs for the equipment, and proceeding with the project. One of the community centers in Kuma Village whose restoration has been completed is now regularly holding soup kitchens, and the rice cooker that was provided by PBV has been put to good use.

PBV’s report can be read here.

SVA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Active Listening Activity in Fukuoka

13th December 2020 8:00

JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is assisting volunteers and implementing active listening activities in Fukuoka and Kumamoto where there were severe damages from the floods in July of this year.

In Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, where more than 1,000 houses were damaged, SVA has been providing support to alleviate the anxiety of the people affected by the disaster. SVA’s salon activity, which is an opportunity for people affected by the disaster to gather for tea in a relaxed atmosphere, works closely with the people and provides them with opportunities for casual talks and light exercises.

Please read SVA’s report here.

SVA's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Alleviating Volunteer Shortage through Volunteer Transportation Bus Operations

27th November 2020 11:34

• Relief work by volunteers using the bus ©SVA

JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is assisting with volunteer transportation bus operations in Kumamoto Prefecture where there were damages from the floods.

With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing limitations on the number of volunteers from outside the prefecture, SVA is sending volunteers from within the prefecture to the areas in need of assistance so that they can help alleviate the shortage of volunteers.

We will continue to make appropriate use of your gifts and donations as we implement our assistance activities while paying close attention to preventing the spread of the new coronavirus.

ADRA's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting building rescue volunteer activities in Kumamoto

17th November 2020 17:30

• Diagnosing the wall lining using fiberscope ©ADRA

JPF member NGO ADRA Japan is currently implementing a relief activity in and around Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where there were damages from the floods in July.

ADRA is supporting the building rescue volunteer activities through providing emergency repairs and consultations for flooded houses as well as surveying their conditions. We will continue to make appropriate use of donations and funds from many individuals and businesses so that we can provide assistance to those in need while paying close attention to preventing the spread of the new coronavirus.

SVA's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting Volunteer Transportation Buses and Book Replenishing in Kumamoto

13th November 2020 11:00

• Relief work by volunteers using the bus ©SVA

JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is assisting with volunteer transportation bus operations and book replenishment in Kumamoto Prefecture, and providing operational support to a private volunteer center and offering active listening in Fukuoka Prefecture.

In Kumamoto, SVA is supporting the operation of a volunteer transportation bus to the areas affected by the flooding, sending volunteers from other areas within the prefecture to help alleviate the shortage of volunteers. SVA will continue to make appropriate use of your donations to support the recovery of the areas affected by the July floods.

PBV's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Equipment gift to community center

29th October 2020 11:35

• Kuma village community center where equipment provision is planned ©PBV

JPF member NGO Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) has been implementing an assistance project mainly in Hitoyoshi City and Kuma Village, both in Kumamoto Prefecture, where there were damages from the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in July. PBV is providing equipment to community centers there to facilitate community revitalization.

While holding briefing sessions in the municipalities affected by the floods, PBV will confirm requests for equipment and proceed with the project. PBV has also begun to provide equipment for assembly halls located in temporary housing complexes.

PBV’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Equipment provision to community center in Kumamoto

23rd October 2020 11:35

• PBV’s community center equipment donation meeting with cooperation from Hitoyoshi City ©PBV

JPF member NGO Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) has been implementing an assistance project mainly in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, which was affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in July.

In late September, PBV began its assistance as part of a JPF program to provide equipment to community centers to facilitate community revitalization in the Hitoyoshi and Kuma areas of Kumamoto Prefecture. PBV is coordinating the provision of equipment to community centers in the affected areas as well as to assembly halls in post-disaster temporary housing complexes.

Staff members living in Kumamoto are engaged in this project and will provide support in response to local requests, while paying close attention to the prevention of new coronavirus infection.

ADRA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting volunteer activities in Kumamoto

15th October 2020 20:00

• Volunteers and residents who helped distribute supplies ©ADRA

JPF member NGO ADRA Japan is currently implementing a relief activity in and around Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where there were damages from the floods in July.

On 17 September, as part of the JPF program, ADRA launched a relief project that support volunteer activities to repair flooded homes and structures in Hitoyoshi City and surrounding areas. ADRA will provide emergency repairs for flooded homes, respond to consultation from homeowners, and host lectures on emergency repairs for local residents.

SVA's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting Volunteer Transportation Buses in Kumamoto

7th October 2020 11:21

JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is implementing assistance projects in Fukuoka and Kumamoto prefectures where damages were sustained from the July 2020 floods.

In Kumamoto, SVA has begun to support the operation of buses transporting volunteers in the communities affected by the floods. Specifically, SVA's project supports the bus operations by a local nonprofit organization in Tamana City, Kumamoto Prefecture, called Association for Rengein Tanjoji International Cooperation (ARTIC). Volunteers from elsewhere in Kumamoto Prefecture are transported on this bus to Hitoyoshi City, Ashikita Town, and Kuma Village, all of which were communities severely affected by the torrential rain and the subsequent flooding.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: End of Relief Activities in Asahi, Takayama

1st October 2020 11:10

• A house being restored under its floorboards ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has worked in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, as they implemented their relief project in response to the flood.

The project had been extended beyond the original schedule, and Vnet had now concluded all of their relief activities at the homes in which they were assisting, including mud removal using heavy machinery, mud removal from underneath the floorboards of damaged houses, and the drying of the spaces under the floorboards.

Although Vnet has ended their support for the people affected by the July 2020 torrential rain and flood, they are now providing support to welfare facilities for persons with disabilities as emergency assistance against the spread of the new coronavirus. They will continue their support activities while paying close attention to infection prevention.

JCSA's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Lending vehicles with cooperation from the local people

23rd September 2020 13:16

• Local staff operating the car sharing base ©JCSA

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued out lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu.

Due to the pandemic and the concerns for outsiders coming into local communities, residents in the areas affected by the torrential rain in Kyushu have been engaging in the relief efforts themselves. For instance, in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, which was severely damaged by the flooding of the Kuma River, local people have been involved in the operational side of the program that makes it possible for vehicles to be lent out free of charge. Having welcomed a new local staff member, JCSA will continue to support the mobility and transportation of the people in the community who were affected by the rain and flood.

JH’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Evacuation shelter assistance in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto

18th September 2020 11:00

• Medical assistance in an evacuation shelter in Hitoyoshi City ©JH

JPF member NGO International Medical Volunteers Japan Heart (JH) has been providing medical support to communities that experienced severe damages in the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu, such as in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture.

Until the end of August, JH provided medical support at the Hitoyoshi Sports Palace, which was one of the evacuation shelters in Hitoyoshi. 290 evacuees were living in the shelter as of the end of August, and JH staff provided health consultations and treatment for injuries while they also listened proactively to the stories told by evacuees. Some of the evacuees had said, "I feel safer just knowing that there is a nurse here.”

The need for medical support in evacuation shelters is decreasing as healthcare facilities in the area have begun to reopen. But JPF will continue to provide support to the communities affected by the rain and flood in the areas of mobility and transportation assistance as well as assistance for welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Restoration assistance for flooded houses in Asahi, Takayama

16th September 2020 12:16

• Drying walls to prevent termite damage ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is continuing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

At one house where Vnet visited at this time, they could see that the floorboards have been put back in one spot where they had removed them to set up blowers the last time they were there, and it was a sign of how much the restoration work progressed. On the other hand, there are still some areas of the house that have not been dried out yet, so the blowers continue to be used in those spots. Additionally, since there was some termite damage in parts of the walls, they are using blowers for those areas of the house as well to prevent the damage from spreading.

AAR's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Providing vehicles for welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto

10th September 2020 13:28

As a relief project in response to the July 2020 floods, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is supporting welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto Prefecture.

To date, AAR has provided commercial-use equipment to the welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Amakusa and Hitoyoshi Cities, Kumamoto Prefecture where they have been assisting in their reopening. Currently, AAR is in the process of arranging for the delivery of vehicles that will be used to transport users and workers to and from the facilities. They are also continuing to investigate the possibility of providing assistance to some of the welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Yatsushiro City and others in Hitoyoshi City that have been affected by the flooding.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Checking the drying conditions under floorboards in Asahi, Takayama

7th September 2020 16:21

• Setting up a blower under the floorboards ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been working in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, as they continue its relief project in response to the flood. Vnet recently visited a house where they had worked on mud removal from underneath the floorboard, and they found that the house was completely dry. The homeowner was pleased with the results, as he no longer needed to replace the entire bathroom. For the other house that had not finished drying quite yet, Vnet replaced blowers and added new ones as well. They will continue to work on this so that things can progress and that the residents can get back to their lives.

AAR's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Reconfirming the support needs of facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto

4th September 2020 12:09

• Visiting a welfare facility currently in support ©AAR

As a relief project in response to the July 2020 floods, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is supporting welfare facilities for persons with disabilities that were affected by the floods in Kumamoto Prefecture.

In cooperation with local partner organizations, AAR has been providing supplies to facilities in Amakusa and Hitoyoshi cities, both in Kumamoto Prefecture, so that they can resume their operations as soon as possible. AAR is also exporing the possibility of providing support to several welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Yatsushiro and Hitoyoshi cities, also both in Kumamoto Prefecture, which have been confirmed to have been affected by the flood.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Lending vehicles in Omuta, Fukuoka

3rd September 2020 14:07

• Vehicles lent out from community center in Mikawa District, Omuta City ©JCSA

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu. As of late August, several hundred people in Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, were still living as evacuees. At the Mikawa Community Center, JCSA is lending out vehicles for free so that the evacuees can use them as a means of transportation.

JH’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Support for evacuation centers in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto

2nd September 2020 16:00

• Medical support at an evacuation shelter in Yatsushiro ©JH

JPF member NGO International Medical Volunteers Japan Heart (JH) has been providing medical support to the evacuation shelters in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, which sustained severe damages in the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu.

As of early August, there were about 170 people living in evacuation shelters in Yatsushiro, but by the end of the month, the number of evacuees was about 100. Unlike the work they are used to doing in healthcare facilities, JH staff must maintain an appropriate distance from the evacuees while working in shelters. This means not interfering too much with the evacuees’ lives so that they can help themselves live independently.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: More than 100 vehicles utilized in flooded areas

1st September 2020 17:45

• Vehicle used to help seniors get around ©JCSA

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu. The number of vehicles utilized in Takeo City (Saga Prefecture), Hitoyoshi City (Kumamoto Prefecture), Hita City (Oita Prefecture), Omuta City (Fukuoka Prefecture) and others has exceeded 100. Thanks to the support of various organizations in providing and transporting these vehicles, JCSA is able to lend vehicles free of charge to the residents in the affected areas. The loaned vehicles are also used by volunteers to assist in the transportation of the elderly.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Continuing to work on drying spaces under floorboards of flooded homes in Asahi, Takayama

31st August 2020 13:29

• Mud removal from a flooded home in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been extending its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, until 27 September. They are working to remove mud from a flooded house, as they found unremoved mud during the restoration process. They are also drying houses that have not been sufficiently dried yet.

Member NGOs’ Relief Projects in Response to the July 2020 Floods

28th August 2020 10:48

• Supporting the reopening of welfare facilities in Amakusa ©AAR
• Medical relief at evacuation shelter in Yatsushiro ©JH
• Lending out light trucks for transporting items ©JCSA
• Mud removal in Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGOs are continuing the following relief activities in the areas seriously affected by the July 2020 floods in Kumamoto and other parts of Kyushu as well as in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

• Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR): Equipment installation assistance in Kumamoto Prefecture for welfare facilities for persons with disabilities affected by the floods to allow for early resumption of their operations
• International Medical Volunteers Japan Heart (JH): Medical support provision in Kumamoto Prefecture in response to the July 2020 floods
• Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA): Free vehicle lending for individuals affected by the July 2020 floods and relief organizations
• Vnet: Disaster relief project in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Drying the space under floorboards of flooded homes in Asahi, Takayama

27th August 2020 15:02

• Blower for drying under the floorboards of homes ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has implemented its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Vnet has been checking to see whether the flooded houses have sufficiently dried and is continuing to dry the spaces under the floorboards that had been difficult to dry. In order to dry the targeted areas, Vnet also installed ducts to the air blowers as they worked on those houses. They will continue to take careful measures to ensure that the drying would not be inadequate.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Beginning disaster relief car lending in Omuta, Fukuoka

26th August 2020 11:24

• Light truck being washed ©JCSA

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu.

In Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, the total number of vehicles lent out has exceeded 120. Additionally, in Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, a local NPO has also begun operating a disaster relief car lending service for which JCSA has provided vehicles and know-how. On the day when there were no requests for a light truck in Hitoyoshi, JCSA staff washed the vehicle as a sign of appreciation for its work. They are preparing for the next request to come.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Restoring flooded homes in Asahi, Takayama

25th August 2020 11:15

• Checking under the floorboards for drying conditions in Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has implemented its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Vnet has finished removing and transporting mud from inside flooded homes but is re-checking how dry these homes are now. Air blowers have been installed, but sometimes the drying process has not progressed as hoped for and other times carpenters have found some areas of concern during the restoration work. Vnet will carefully respond and proceed with the restoration work so that they can move on to the next phase.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Mud removal completed in Asahi, Takayama

24th August 2020 12:00

• Completed all requested work using heavy machinery ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

Vnet had been removing and transporting mud from inside flooded homes using heavy machinery, and, at this time, they have completed all the work that had been requested of them. In fact, they will finish using heavy machinery now. Vnet began its relief activities in the areas in Takayama City that had been flooded by helping to restore flooded houses, and they will carry on until the very end, with utmost care and consideration to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.

AAR's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Relief items for facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto

22nd August 9:00

• Providing commercial refrigerators to welfare facilities ©AAR

As a relief project in response to the July 2020 floods, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is supporting those who were affected by the floods. Their project supports welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto Prefecture that were affected by the floods. AAR provides them with equipment installation assistance so that these organizations can resume their operations shortly.

With the cooperation of local partner organizations, preparations are underway to provide relief items to support the early reopening of welfare facilities (including sheltered workshops) for people with disabilities in Amakusa and Hitoyoshi cities in Kumamoto Prefecture. So far, AAR has provided refrigerators and ice machines to a facility in Amakusa City, where the workers with disabilities had been making and selling udon noodles prior to the flood, so that they can resume their operations. Arrangements have also been made to provide a replacement vehicle to another facility in Hitoyoshi City, where a vehicle that had been used to pick up and drop off their workers and facility users had to be scrapped due to flooding.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Mud removal about to be completed in Asahi, Takayama

21st August 2020 11:30

• Heavy machinery work is nearing an end ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

In the scorching summer heat, Vnet has been using heavy machinery to remove and transport mud from inside flooded homes, but the work is almost complete now. As a result of reconfirming whether there were any more needs for assistance in Takayama and Gero cities, both in Gifu Prefecture, Vnet concluded that there were no new requests and that their relief activities would soon come to an end. Vnet had been assisting in the recovery of the areas affected by the flood in Takayama City, which began with helping to restore flooded houses. They will continue their support activities until the end, with utmost care and consideration for the prevention of the spread of the new coronavirus.

JH’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: A month since beginning shelter support in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto

20th August 2020 10:58

• Medical Support in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto ©JH

JPF member NGO International Medical Volunteers Japan Heart (JH) is providing medical support to the evacuation shelters in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, which sustained severe damages in the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu. It has been about a month since JH started providing relief there.

The number of people in the evacuation shelters is gradually decreasing, but those who have had to remain there are experiencing various stresses due to prolonged evacuation. Among these evacuees are those who are not able to voice their concerns and struggles themselves. JH will continue to work with local public health nurses and municipal governments to create a safe environment for the evacuees to live in.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: A month since starting relief activities in Hitoyoshi

19th August 2020 16:34

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding in Kyushu. One month has passed since they launched their activity in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where more than 70 vehicles have been in operation so far, bringing the total number of times vehicles were loaned out to more than 120.

JCSA has also received donations of vehicles from businesses, organizations, and individuals. They will continue to respond to the needs for mobility assistance in Hitoyoshi City and other affected areas.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Lending out vehicles in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto, as moral support for those affected by the floods

17th August 2020 11:28

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free to the people affected by the floods in Kyushu. In the city of Hitoyoshi, in Kumamoto Prefecture, JCSA has lent out a total of more than 120 vehicles.

A local newspaper has reported on the voices of people who were having trouble getting around because their cars were submerged under water, but were able to borrow cars through JCSA, saying they felt "emotionally energized" by the loan.

The article from the Kumamoto Nichinichi Shimbun newspaper can be read here:
https://this.kiji.is/666818009350472801?c=92619697908483575

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Mobility Support in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto

13th August 2020 17:35

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has continued to lend out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent floods in Kyushu. In Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, the total number of vehicles lent out has exceeded 100.

Passenger cars provide mobility to the residents and support their daily lives, such as with their daily commutes to work and school or on their shopping trips. For instance, JCSA was able to help small children, who had to walk to and from preschool when their families didn’t have access to cars, a means of transportation.

Vnet's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Restoration of flooded houses and assessment of current conditions in Asahi, Takayama

12th August 2020 13:46

• Restoration work in a flooded house ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

On 11 August, Vnet continued to work indoors using heavy machinery to remove and transport mud from flooded homes. During a break, they visited a house that they had previously worked on to check on its current conditions. This house had been flooded above floor level and Vnet had assisted in its restoration work. They saw that the floorboards had been affixed now and that the restoration process was progressing smoothly.

Vnet also received information that there was a flooded house in town that had not been restored yet, and they went to check on it. As they saw that the foundations had been scraped away from this house, Vnet discussed with the homeowner and the local government to see how they can best deal with the damages.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Lending out work vehicles in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto

11th August 2020 13:38

• Lending out light trucks for transport in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto ©JCSA

JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) lends out vehicles for free in the areas affected by the torrential rain and subsequent floods in Kyushu, responding to requests from the local communities. In Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, staff from within Kumamoto Prefecture along with local volunteers run this service. In town, you see light trucks with Miyagi Prefecture (in northeast Japan, far away from Kyushu) license plates that JCSA has lent out, and other such vehicles are being driven around the Kuma River area as people use them for clean-up and transport.

Vnet's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Advice on mold prevention in Asahi, Takayama

8th August 2020 9:00

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

Currently, most of their work entails removal and transport of mud from inside flooded homes with the use of heavy machinery, but Vnet is also providing advice to flood-affected households on how to prevent mold from growing underneath the floorboards. In addition, Vnet has started interviewing local welfare facilities to assess their needs as part of JPF's coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency response.

AAR's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting Organizations for Persons with Disabilities in Kumamoto

7th August 2020 14:14

As a relief project in response to the July 2020 floods, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is supporting those who were affected by the floods. Their project supports welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto Prefecture that were affected by the floods. AAR provides them with equipment installation assistance so that these organizations can resume their operations shortly.

With the cooperation of local partner organizations, preparations are underway to provide essential items for daily use to the welfare facilities in Hitoyoshi and Amakusa cities in Kumamoto that are the targeted beneficiaries of this project. These items would be vital for the early reopening of these facilities. Meanwhile, AAR is also collecting information on how the welfare facilities in other regions also affected by the floods are doing.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Removing mud and driftwood in Asahi, Takayama

3rd August 2020 17:22

• Shed demolition work in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

On 2 August, Vnet members and support members divided into multiple groups and worked on various outdoor tasks including mud removal from parks, demolition of a flooded shed, and removal of driftwood. While working, they spotted a local resident shoveling mud out of the roadside ditch, so those who finished their work helped the resident. The resident seemed happy to have the work on the roadside ditch was completed within an hour with the help from Vnet members.

The disaster volunteer center run by the Takayama City Social Welfare Council will close down now, but Vnet will continue to respond to the relief needs the town of Asahi has that require heavy machinery.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Indoor flood recovery work in Asahi, Takayama

1st August 2020 9:00

• Working indoors in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. On the 29th, after having suspended relief work on flooded structures due to a heavy rain warning being issued, Vnet finished mud removal and was able to proceed to disinfecting under the floorboards thanks to having the fans on to dry the space during the suspended period. On this day, they could complete the requested indoor recovery work.

Vnet is continuing its outdoor relief work such as mud removal from an inn. Much of the work ahead is expected to be outdoors, but they will also respond to needs for indoor relief work should requests be made.

JCSA’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Lending out vehicles from Takeo, Saga, and Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto

31st July 2020 11:58

• Vehicles lent out for free ©JCSA

In response to the torrential rain and subsequent floods in Kyushu, JPF member NGO Japan Car Sharing Association (JCSA) has begun lending out vehicles for free from the city of Takeo, Saga Prefecture, where they have a branch. Simultaneously, in response to the request from the city of Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture, JCSA has set up a base in the city operated by local staff and volunteers, and they are lending out vehicles free of charge from there as well.

People who have been affected by the disaster have various needs to use cars such as shopping, commuting to work, and going to medical appointments. In coordination with local partners, JCSA will support the communities’ recovery efforts by aiding the residents with their everyday transportation.

AAR’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Supporting Organizations for Persons with Disabilities in Kumamoto

30th July 2020 11:48

As a relief project in response to the July 2020 floods, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), has started a project supporting welfare facilities for persons with disabilities in Kumamoto that were affected by the flood. AAR is providing them with equipment installation assistance so that these organizations can resume their operations shortly. The project began on the 21st of this month, and AAR has been coordinating efforts while being in close contact with beneficiary facilities via phone and email. They will also be collecting information on the flooding and other damages sustained by welfare facilities in other regions.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Resuming relief in Asahi, Takayama

29th July 2020 13:30

• Mud removal using heavy machinery ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. On the 25th and 26th, Vnet had suspended its work due to safety concerns as heavy rain warning had been issued, but on the 27th and 28th they resumed their project with removal of mud using heavy machinery. Large amounts of mud cannot be transported unless using heavy machinery, while for places where machines cannot enter and with smaller spaces, manual work would be more appropriate. Therefore, cooperation is needed in proceeding with these efforts efficiently.

Since considerate amount of work has been completed as part of this initial response, the volunteers are now recruited only from within the Hida region and not the entire prefecture to be thoroughly careful in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

HuMA’s Response to the July 2020 Floods, Part 13 - Completing emergency initial assessment and medical support in Ashikita, Kumamoto

27th July 2020 12:05

• Submitting a report at a medical facility in Ashikita ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) arrived in Kumamoto prefecture on the 9th of July to conduct emergency initial assessment, and they confirmed through needs assessment that there are staff shortages at healthcare facilities. Between the 12th and 25th of July, HuMA provided medical care assistance at facilities in the town of Ashikita, while also distributing relief items - such as masks, gowns, and thermometers - to medical and welfare facilities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

On the 24th and 25th, HuMA staff paid courtesy visits to municipal governments and healthcare facilities, submitted a report of their relief work, and successfully ended their two-week activities. JPF will continue to provide relief in response to local requests while being very thorough in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

HuMA’s Response to the July 2020 Floods, Part 12 - House calls for home care patients in Ashikita, Kumamoto

25th July 2020 9:00

• Reporting at a regional response meeting ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) is continuing its care provision assistance for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. On 22 July, since a medical facility that HuMA is supporting had 50 outpatient appointments, HuMA doctors saw patients and accompanied emergency transportation of home care patients. Healthcare facilities in the region have shortages of nurses, so HuMA nurses supported the night shift as well. HuMA was also present at the Minamata and Ashikita regional response meeting, engaging in information exchange there.

HuMA’s emergency medical assistance is planned to end at the end of this week, but JPF will continue to provide relief in response to local requests while being very thorough in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

HuMA’s Response to the July 2020 Floods, Part 11 - Continuing nursing and inpatient care in Ashikita, Kumamoto

24th July 2020 9:00

• A HuMA nurse with a patient at a medical facility in Ashikita ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) is continuing its needs assessment and assistance provision for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. On 21 July, HuMA’s nurses provided inpatient care and bathing assistance at a healthcare facility where the organization has been assisting, as they have had more people seek outpatient care than usual and ended up experiencing a shortage of nurses. HuMA has also provided relief items and conducted needs assessment at medical and caregiving facilities.

At JPF, we will continue to provide relief in response to local requests while being very thorough in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Working under the floorboards of flooded homes in Asahi, Takayama

23rd July 2020 9:00

• Working under the floorboard in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Vnet has been continuing its cleaning and disinfecting of flooded homes in Asahi. On the 20th of this month, they worked with support from local volunteers as they provided relief to the flooded homes. At these homes, they finished cleaning the spaces under the floorboards after the mud had been taken out, and also gave advice on disinfection methods as needed. They removed mud outdoors using heavy machinery as well.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment in Response to the July 2020 Floods, Part 10 - Continuing medical care, relief item provision, and needs assessment in Ashikita, Kumamoto

22nd July 2020 10:30

• Needs assessment at Ashikita Volunteer Center ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) is continuing its needs assessment and assistance provision for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. On 20 July, HuMA’s doctors and nurses provided outpatient and inpatient care at healthcare facilities where the organization has been assisting.

The day being so hot and humid, the facilities had heat stroke patients, whose numbers are expected to increase in the days to come. From the patients receiving outpatient care, we hear how they are struggling with cleaning up their flooded homes. HuMA will continue to help healthcare facilities and evacuation shelters with relief items and needs assessment, while also providing information on recovery assistance as needed.

Online health counseling

27th July 27 2020 22:11

• ©JISP

General Incorporated Association Japan International Support Program (JISP), a JPF member NGO, is helping people affected by Typhoon Hagibis rebuild their lives in Miyagi and Fukushima Prefectures, with funding from JPF.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people have had fewer opportunities for social interaction, and many are in poorer health or have become depressed as a result. To respond to this situation, JISP has started providing online health counseling to people living in a temporary housing community in the town of Osato in Miyagi Prefecture, to make it easy for them to discuss concerns about their health.

Online health counseling is provided to those who are interested by connecting them with a health professional via Zoom.
One resident was unsure as it was her first time to receive counseling over the internet, but after her session ended, she said that she was glad to have been able to address her concerns.

We hope to adapt to the ever-changing situation and continue to deliver aid that is possible.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Repairing flooded homes in Asahi, Takayama

21st July 2020 11:00

• Wiping mud away from under the floorboards of a flooded home in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is implementing its relief project in response to the flood in the town of Asahi in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Vnet has been continuing its cleaning and disinfecting of flooded homes in Asahi. On the 19th of this month, they worked in multiple groups consisting of their staff and volunteers, who came from within Takayama or from other places in the prefecture. They are also doing heavy lifting work, taking furniture and other household items out of flooded homes using a dump truck, while also doing demolition and removal of flooded sheds using heavy machinery.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 9 - Medical care support and relief items for Ashikita, Kumamoto

20th July 2020 10:46

• ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) has been conducting needs assessment and providing assistance for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. On 18 July, HuMA’s doctors and nurses continued to help provide outpatient care at healthcare facilities where they have been assisting. Thanks to the support from many of you, they were able to deliver rubbing alcohol, masks, thermometers, and other items in short supply to healthcare facilities and evacuation shelters. HuMA will continue to help healthcare facilities in need of supplies with relief items.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 8 - Continuing medical care support in Ashikita, Kumamoto

19th July 2020 9:00

• HuMA doctor providing inpatient care ©HuMA

HuMA doctor providing inpatient care ©HuMA

JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) has been conducting emergency initial assessment and providing assistance for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. The duration of these activities in the original plan has been extended until 22 July, and HuMA will continue to support healthcare facilities affected by the flood while also doing needs assessment.

On 16 July, HuMA’s doctors and nurses continued to help provide outpatient and inpatient care. With a shortage of supplies such as antiseptics and dressings, healthcare workers must make do with what they have. HuMA’s medical team also plans to support care provision at other local healthcare facilities that have resumed care.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Cleaning and disinfecting flooded homes in Takayama

18th July 2020 9:00

• Cleaning under the floorboards in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

Cleaning under the floorboards in Asahi, Takayama ©Vnet

On 16 July, JPF member NGO Vnet continued its relief efforts in response to the flood in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

In the town of Asahi in Takayama, Vnet worked with 5 homes with mud removal, using fans to dry the space under the floorboards, cleaning, and disinfecting. Cleaning and disinfecting of the structural foundations of houses take much effort, but these are indispensable steps in preventing mold from growing in flooded homes.

Heavy machinery was used in heavy lifting relief work such as demolition and removal of flooded sheds. HuMA will continue to provide relief based on their expertise as they assess local needs.

Support from XING, Inc.: Donations to July 2020 flood resposne when karaoke items are purchased

17th July 2020 23:32

• ©XING, Inc.
• ©XING, Inc.

In support of JPF’s emergency response to July 2020 floods, XING, Inc., has prepared special items in their karaoke social media Uta Suki’s JOYSOUND avatar service, where people can donate to the response through purchasing items for their avatars. When you purchase these special items, the entire amount (1 JOYSOUND point = 1 yen) will be donated to JPF. Additionally, XING’s subsidiary Standard Corp. has kindly placed donation boxes at their directly managed JOYSOUND stores. We are thankful for their support.

JPF will continue to provide relief in response to requests made by local communities affected by the floods, while being very thorough in preventing the spread of COVID-19. We will use your donations carefully as we deliver the assistance to people in need.

JOYSOUND avatar items for flood relief are available for purchase starting on Tuesday 14 July until 11:00 a.m. on Monday 17 August. For more information, please see: https://xing.co.jp/archives/16686

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 7 - Supporting medical and nursing care in Ashikita, Kumamoto

17th July 2020 10:31

• HuMA doctor providing outpatient care ©HuMA

On 15 July, JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) continued its assistance for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. HuMA’s medical staff each provided their expertise as they supported local healthcare facilities: medical doctors helped with outpatient care, nurses provided nursing care in hospitals and assisted patients with bathing, and pharmacists prepared prescription medication. As conditions change from day to day in the communities affected by the flood, relief providers like HuMA would need to continue to assess the medical relief needs and respond accordingly.

Vnet’s Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Restoring homes in Takayama

16th July 2020 10:55

• Cleaning under floor level in Takayama ©Vnet

On 15 July, JPF member NGO Vnet provided relief in response to the flood in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

In Takayama where Vnet is physically based, they are helping with mud removal and other cleaning efforts for flooded homes, working with their members as well as volunteers from the local community and the social welfare council. They cleared mud from underneath the floorboards and cleaned this space, and also used heavy machinery to remove damaged roofs and driftwood.

Vnet will continue to assess local needs and provide assistance on home restoration work that is difficult to undertake for individuals and families affected by this flood.

Calling for Donations to JPF’s Flood Response through Yahoo! Japan Donations

15th July 2020 18:30

JPF has begun to provide relief to people affected by the torrential rain and flood in Kyushu and around the country. We will continue our efforts while being very careful about preventing the spread of COVID-19. Thank you in advance for your warm support for our activities.

Please visit Yahoo! Japan Donations page here: https://donation.yahoo.co.jp/detail/987028/

HuMA's Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 6 - Supporting healthcare facilities in Ashikita, Kumamoto

15th July 2020 14:31

• Providing relief for outpatient care in Ashikita, Kumamoto ©HuMA

As of 14 July, JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) is continuing its assistance for healthcare facilities in the town of Ashikita in Kumamoto prefecture. While some healthcare facilities have not been able to resume operations in the areas affected by the floods, HuMA’s doctors and pharmacists provided relief for outpatient care. Many of these facilities are experiencing problems as they cannot use machines that have been soaked in the flood water, and we expect that these facilities would need assistance replacing these medical equipment and other items.

Vnet's Relief Project in Response to the July 2020 Floods: Mud removal in Takayama, Gifu

14th July 2020 17:00

• Removal of mud using heavy machinery ©Vnet
• Mud removal inside a home ©Vnet

On 13 July, JPF member NGO Vnet implemented a relief activity in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, in response to the flood. Vnet is a new member of JPF that just joined in May of this year. In Takayama where they are based, Vnet worked on mud removal in and around flooded homes. They used heavy machinery as people had been saying how difficult it was to do this work manually.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 3 - Masks Donated to Medical Facilities

11th July 2020 20:00

• Masks donated to healthcare facility in Ashikita ©HuMA

As of 10 July, JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) is continuing its emergency initial assessment in Kumamoto prefecture. They have also donated masks to evacuation shelters and healthcare facilities. While these medical facilities themselves have been affected by the torrential rain, many of these clinics are continuing to see patients to help support those who have been affected by this disaster and those who have fallen ill after evacuating, as well as other local residents.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 2 - In Ashikita, Kumamoto

10th July 2020 13:30

• Town of Ashikita which sustained serious damages ©HuMA
• Emergency initial assessment in Ashikita ©HuMA

On 9 July, JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) began to conduct its emergency initial assessment in Kumamoto prefecture. In the town of Ashikita, Kumamoto prefecture, where major damages were sustained by the heavy rain, HuMA also donated masks to healthcare facilities that are aiming to reopen soon. They will continue their assessment activity while being thoroughly careful in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

HuMA’s Emergency Initial Assessment, Part 1

10th July 2020 11:14

• Kumamoto Prefectural Healthcare Coordination Headquarters ©HuMA

On 9 July, JPF member NGO Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA) began to conduct its emergency initial assessment in Kumamoto prefecture. HuMA will proceed with its assessment in order to deliver assistance that is needed in the local communities, while being very careful about preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Emergency Response to July 2020 Floods Launched, Calls for Donations - Entering affected local community only in response to requests, relief activities delivered with thorough COVID-19 prevention measures

9th July 2020

• Online information sharing meeting ©JPF
• PWJ staff doctor conducting emergency initial assessment ©PWJ

We would like to express our sincere condolences to the families of those who have passed away in the floods in Kyushu and around Japan, and we extend our sympathies to all who have suffered grave damages and loss in this disaster.

On 4 July, the very day Japan Meteorological Agency issued a special heavy rain warning for Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures, Japan Platform (JPF) began our emergency initial assessment towards emergency humanitarian relief, conducting assessment for damages and needs in areas affected by the torrential rain. JPF has also been participating in daily online information sharing meetings with Kumamoto Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KVOAD), Japan Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (JVOAD), and other relief organizations in the local areas and around the country. Today, on 9 July, we have decided to launch the Emergency Response to July 2020 Floods program and begun to call for donations.

As this has become the first disaster for Japan under the influence of the new coronavirus, we will proceed with our assistance activities very carefully, taking thorough prevention measures against the spread of COVID-19. We will not have direct physical presence in the affected areas as a general rule, with aid activities provided through organizations based in the respective local areas instead. We will also only implement assistance in response to requests made by the local communities.

Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is beginning emergency initial assessment around Kuma River in Kumamoto prefecture: https://www.japanplatform.org/info/2020/07/041554.html

Torrential Rain in Kyushu: Information gathering in progress (Japan Meteorological Agency issues special heavy rain warning for Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures)
https://www.japanplatform.org/info/2020/07/041140.html

PWJ Distributing Hygiene Items in Taragi, Kumamoto

8th July 2020 14:40

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

In Taragi High School located in the town of Taragi, Kumamoto prefecture, which has been converted into an evacuation shelter, ARROWS / Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management Japan (A-PAD Japan) is distributing hygiene items and food. They are carrying out their activities while being thoroughly careful in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Online Information Sharing Meeting of Local and Other Relief Providers - July 2020 Floods

8th July 2020 6:27

• ©JPF

In response to the floods in Kyushu, JPF has been participating in an online information sharing meeting every evening along with Kumamoto Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (KVOAD), Japan Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (JVOAD), and other relief organizations in the local areas and around the country. Wider and wider regions are affected by the floods as days go by, and on the evening of 7 July, organizations from Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Miyazaki, and Saga prefectures participated in the meeting.

We share what we know about the conditions in the affected areas, the needs of the people who are affected, and the progress of relief activities, as individual organizations consider what they can do to save lives. As this is the first disaster for Japan under the influence of the new coronavirus, we are being cautious about external relief providers entering the communities affected by this disaster as we continue to ascertain what kinds of assistance would be possible for the people in need and the local people affected by the floods and landslides

PWJ Providing Emergency Relief Items at Kounose Preschool in Kumamoto

7th July 2020 13:29

• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

ARROWS (Airborne Rescue & Relief Operations With Search), the flying rescue and medical troop operated by PWJ, arrived at Kounose Preschool in the village of Kuma, Kumamoto prefecture, where 70 people had evacuated. ARROWS successfully distributed emergency relief items there.

Evacuee Transportation from Kuma Athletic Park Completed - July 2020 Floods

6th July 2020 18:39

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

With support from the local police and the Japanese Self Defense Forces, evacuees had started being transported from the Kuma Athletic Park, which had been the evacuation shelter, to the new shelter site at Hitoyoshi Daiichi Junior High School. At a little past noon, the ARROWS shelter assistance team arrived at the junior high school. Every evacuee had been safely transported out of the Kuma Athletic Park now.

PWJ Mask Distriution at Shelter in Kuma, Kumamoto - July 2020 Floods

6th July 2020 14:05

• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

The medical team of ARROWS (Airborne Rescue & Relief Operations With Search), the flying rescue and medical troop operated by PWJ, distributed masks at the evacuation shelter set up in Sakura Dome located in the Kuma Athletic Park. PWJ will continue its assistance at the shelter while being very careful with preventing the spread of infections.

PWJ Setting Up a Temporary Clinic at Shelter in Kumamoto Where Doctors Provide Care - July 2020 Floods

6th July 2020 1:36

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

PWJ’s flying rescue and medical troop, ARROWS, and a nonprofit organization called TMAT have set up a temporary medical clinic at the Kuma Athletic Park, which has been designated as an evacuation shelter. Doctors and nurses provided medical care to 32 evacuees there. PWJ will also devote its efforts to infection prevention and sanitation improvement, too.

Search and Rescue Operations by ARROWS Disaster Rescue Dog Team in Ashikita and Tsunagi, Kumamoto

6th July 2020 1:28

• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS

In response to the floods in southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is conducting emergency initial assessment.

On 4 July, PWJ’s ARROWS disaster rescue dog team joined local fire and rescue squads in the search and rescue operations in the Tagawa district of the town of Ashikita, Kumamoto prefecture, where people were missing after a mudslide. On the following 5th of July, the team also responded to a request from the Japanese Self Defense Forces and participated in the search and rescue operations in the Fukuhama district of the town of Tsunagi, Kumamoto prefecture, where residents continue to be missing.

PWJ Beginning Emergency Initial Assessment around Kuma River, Kumamoto - July 2020 Floods

5th July 2020 11:01

• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS
• ©ARROWS

As heavy rain struck southern Kyushu, Japan Platform (JPF) member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) began its emergency initial assessment.

In the areas around the Kuma River in Kumamoto prefecture where there has been flooding up and down the stream, PWJ will have their rescue team and disaster rescue dogs conduct search and rescue operations, and doctors and nurses will provide medical care to those in need. Additional needs assessment will be done in new areas sustaining damages as these areas are identified.

In addition to providing relief items and medical care to those in need of emergency relief, PWJ will also be providing support to evacuation shelters in their preventative efforts against the spread of COVID-19. Following the guidelines for coronavirus infection prevention during a disaster, we will be carefully implementing our relief activities. Please look forward to our regular updates on this response as well.

Torrential Rain in Kyushu: Information gathering in progress (Japan Meteorological Agency issues special heavy rain warning for Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures)
https://www.japanplatform.org/info/2020/07/041140.html

Torrential Rain in Kyushu: Information gathering in progress

4th July 2020 12:08

At 4:50 a.m. today on 4 July, special heavy rain warning was issued for some areas in Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures, both in the Kyushu region. The warning issued was at Level 5, which requires the highest level of alert, and flooding is occurring in the lower basin of Kuma River, a Class A river (which is a designation for rivers considered important to the economy and environmental conservation).

Mudslide warning has been issued for many areas around Japan. Japan Platform (JPF) is currently gathering information on this ongoing disaster.

Torrential Rain in Kyushu: Information gathering in progress (Japan Meteorological Agency issues special heavy rain warning for Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures)
https://www.japanplatform.org/info/2020/07/041140.html