Sister City Reports No Deaths, But in Need of Supplies

Messages received from residents of Kitakami, Japan, Concord’s sister city, are miraculously reporting no loss of life or widespread destruction to the city,  Concord officials announced today.

Kitakami is located only 89 miles northwest of Sendai—the coastal city located closest to last week’s earthquake.

Food, water and gasoline, in Kitakami, however, are in short supply, and all train transportation has been stopped. Emergency centers have been set up for those in need.

“We are relieved to hear that Kitakami survived the worst of the destruction,” said Concord Ambassadors President Mike Pastrick. Members of the Concord Ambassadors support the City’s Sister City Program in Kitakami.   

“While Kitakami was spared, our hearts go out to the people of Japan in areas not so fortunate. Less than 40 miles away from Kitakami, the people of the Iwate coast suffered horrendous losses. Many generous people have asked what they can do. At this time, the best way to offer assistance is to make a donation to one of the many charities sending aid to Japan,” he said.

The Ambassadors and the Japanese American Cultural Center in Concord are discussing what further actions are possible when the situation is more stable.

Pastrick suggests donations to the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California - Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Fund (1840 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 via Union Bank)  the Japan Society of Northern California,  the Japanese Consulate in San Francisco,  the Salvation Army,  Red Cross or any of the other international organizations mobilizing to assist Japan. The Consulate website also includes the latest developments and contacts for those seeking more information.