How to help Japan

I subscribe to the Lion Brand Yarn Notebook and want to share this article with my fellow crocheters and knitters:

How to Help Japan

March 21st, 2011 by Jess

In response to the devastating tsunami and earthquake in Japan, many crafters have asked us how they can help. As crocheters and knitters, it is our natural inclination to want to donate handmade goods. However, I want to encourage you not to try to donate your goods directly to Japan at this time. As pointed out by this article, the country’s infrastructure has been severely damaged, making it virtually impossible to ship donations and have them distributed.

The most important way you can help right now is through monetary donations. If you still want to support relief efforts with crafting, consider raffling or selling your goods and donating the proceeds. There are so many fantastic organizations currently accepting donations. Here are just a few of them:

• The American Red Cross is assisting the Japanese Red Cross Society. Click here to donate to the cause on their website, or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10.
• Save the Children is operating the first child-friendly space in an evacuation center. You can support their efforts by donating here.
• AmeriCares is working to provide life-saving medical care and supplies to the region. You can submit your donation here.

In addition, the group Handmade for Japan will be auctioning handmade goods on eBay from March 24th-27th. Started by Japanese-American ceramic artist Ayumi Horie, the auction will donate 100% of proceeds to Global Giving. You can check out the auction here on March 24th, and you can view more details about the project here.


There's always something we can do, even with little or next to little money. It's good to know there are other ways to give.