Samaritan's Purse relief and rebuilding efforts helped shine the light of the Gospel
This month marks the two-year anniversary of the deadly tsunami and earthquake that struck Japan on March 11, 2011. The 9.03 magnitude earthquake and 40 foot high tsunami wave claimed the lives of more than 15,000 people.
Samaritan’s Purse responded in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. After helping with emergency relief supplies, we stayed to help storm victims rebuild their lives while sharing the love of Christ.
We still support local churches and missionaries in Japan as they continue to minister to people recovering from the storm.
With the help of 7,456 volunteers, Samaritan’s Purse impacted 18,592 households. Our work helped open doors for the Gospel, and 80 people came to faith in Jesus Christ.
“Through the work of Samaritan’s Purse, this community and Japan is encountering Jesus Christ in a new way,” said Yuko McDonald, a relief worker who volunteered during the initial disaster relief. “When Samaritan’s Purse [came] in, the darkness [was] pushed over by light. And the people’s hearts are open. Their homes are open.”
Immediately following the disaster, we sent a 747 cargo plane filled with more than 90 tons of emergency relief supplies for distribution, including plastic sheeting for shelter, hygiene supplies, and blankets.
After the initial disaster phase, we began a program to repair and rebuild houses for the most needy. We completed 510 construction projects within the past two years.
Please pray for the people of Japan as they continue to heal after this devastating disaster and for more open doors to share the Gospel.
