The Japanese Canadian Association of Yukon (JCAY) held a film night last weekend in which $2300 was raised for the Japan Earthquake/Tsunami Relief Fund. The Fund has recently been set up by the JCAY as a separate account at the Scotia Bank in Whitehorse. All the monies donated will go toward an established, reputable aid organization working in Japan.
Fumi Torigai, President of the local JCAY said, “The weekend fundraiser was a wonderful start and we were pleased to see the many people who supported the event. We wish to thank people for their support and concern.” He mentioned that if people missed the weekend event there are many places where they can leave donations or can contribute directly to the Japan Earthquake/Tsunami Relief Fund by writing a cheque to JCAY and dropping it off at the Scotia Bank. Alternatively, they can make a donation directly to any aid agency of your choice such as the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam or any other reputable organization, earmarking it for the Japan relief effort and receive a tax-deductible receipt.
Several businesses and workplaces have set up donation boxes or have approached the JCAY with offers of assistance. The Subway on Second Avenue is donating part of the sales from the next two Fridays toward the Relief Fund. The Baked Café will match the donations made at their business.
People can also donate their bottle and can returns to the JCAY account at Raven Recycling until the end of August after which all of the money will be donated to the Relief Fund.
The Japanese Canadian Association of Yukon is also planning an April fundraising “Japanese Village Festival” to introduce Yukoners to cultural activities and demonstrations geared for the whole family on Sunday afternoon, April 3rd. Watch for further details.
For further information contact Fumi Torigai at jcayukon@gmail.com or phone 393-2588 or Lillian Nakamura Maguire at lmaguire@northwestel.net.