Author Leads Shelterbox Fundraiser for Earthquake Victims in Japan

Author Maureen Johnson has launched an online fundraiser for Shelterbox, collecting money for earthquake and tsunami relief in Japan–they have already raised more than $14,200 since the quake. She tweeted about the inspiring response: “We have our total and the prize winners have been chosen. It’s so much information, IT CANNOT BE TWEETED. WRITING POST.”

Johnson led a similar fundraiser for earthquake victims in New Zealand, raising more than $15,000 last week. Here’s more about the charity: “Shelterbox is an organization that goes into areas of the world affected by disaster with large green boxes that contain shelters and the materials needed for people to restart their lives on some level. The boxes always include a top-quality tent, and they usually include stoves, blankets, water purification systems, and tools. This is true, life-saving stuff, hand-delivered by volunteers trained in survival techniques.”

Johnson will also randomly give away prizes to donors. If you donate, tweet your donation and use the tag #thelastlittleshelterbox or #nameoftheshelterbox.  (Via Ron Hogan)

Editor’s note: This post was updated as the story evolved. If you are looking for other ways to help, Amazon will let users make Red Cross donations directly.

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