At 2:46 pm, on March 11, 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake, one of the largest ever recorded, struck the northern part of Japan. Close to 20,000 people lost their lives, and that number is still increasing. The ensuing tsunami not only swept away cars, homes, schools and hospitals in the blink of an eye, but tens of thousands of people lost loved ones-children, parents, grandparents, sweethearts and friends-as well as their livelihoods and memories. However, the Japanese people will rise from this catastrophe. At this very moment, a large number of volunteers and NPOs are desperately supporting the victims who are trying to recover from this terrible tragedy. And, many people all over the world are supporting these victims, volunteers and NPOs. These disaster relief and recovery activities will continue for a very long time. Your support will give Japan strength. "ARIGATO." Thank you, from Japan.