Japan is donating $2 million to victims of the devastating Los Angeles County wildfires through the American Red Cross, officials said on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
“Japan will actively provide assistance for the relief of the victims and the earliest possible recovery of the affected areas,” according to a statement from the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles.
On Monday, Consul General Kenko Sone issued a message of condolence to the area.
“A heartbreaking and tragic week has passed since the Palisades and Eaton Fires started on January 7th. Struggles continue. The devastation and challenges are beyond our imagination,” Sone wrote. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the fires. … Even under such difficult circumstances, it is encouraging to see so many organizations, volunteers, and individuals donating food, supplies and time to help with ongoing efforts. The perseverance and resilience of Angelenos is amazing and what the City of Angels represents.”
Sone added, “Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles is now working with Japanese and Japanese American businesses and communities to join these relief efforts. Japan is a nation that has experienced natural disasters and we are thankful for the generous support supplied by Southern California when it was needed the most. We stand with you all to support immediate needs and will do our best to collaborate with authorities, communities, and all of you to rebuild communities devastated by the fires.”
He urged those impacted by the fires, “If you need assistance or resources, please reach out, and we will do our best to help together with Japanese and Japanese American communities.”