Aidmatrix, NetHope, and BHN Provide Relief to Japan

Aidmatrix has been extremely busy the past 4 weeks helping the people of Japan recover from the Earthquake and Tsunami. We have been able to coordinate donations and transportation valued over half a million dollars. The majority of these donations were offers of basic relief supplies, but Aidmatrix was also able to move radiation detectors and a donation of over 2,060 computers has made an interesting impact when it comes to rebuilding the infrastructure in Japan. A partner of Aidmatrix is the association called NetHope and they have been able to secure 2 different donations of computers. The bulk of which has been distributed to members of the NetHope Association (www.nethope.org/community/members). Aidmatrix coordinated the donation with the international nonprofit NetHope with our on the ground partner Japan Second Harvest (J2H). J2H received the computers at their warehouse location and provided in country distribution services. Connecting these disparate supply chains truly demonstrates the power of the Aidmatrix network and the contacts that can be made and the relief work that can happen by empowering a community to collaborate.


The remaining computers were offered to a nonprofit in Japan called the BHN Association who will be using these computers to restore Japanese Public Radio. BHN is a member of the AMARC (World Association of Community radios) and specializes in information and communication support and assistance in disaster relief as well as in economic and community development overseas. They are currently doing a project with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign affairs http://www.bhn.or.jp. This project is with "FM wai-wai", a community FM radio station based in Kobe. It was set up after the Hanshin-awaji earthquake and has expertise in helping and supporting, or if needed setting up new community-based FM radios in disaster affected areas to ensure people receive information specifically needed by the local people www.tcc117.org/fmyy/index.php. This includes notices to evacuate if a disaster is on its way. The computers provided by the Symantec Corporation in Japan will be provided to community FM radios stations that were affected and were without PCs. PCs are needed to receive content (for example music and other programs produced by others and sent to them for their use), to store data, and organize broadcasting programs. Computers are a vital piece of equipment for broadcasting. These broadcasts are crucial as it helps the community prepare and recover from disaster situations. These FM radios will also provide information in different languages for the non-Japanese population. Finally, BHN is now setting up internet access points in evacuation centers and will use the donated computers at these locations.

Aidmatrix, NetHope, and BHN have been able to connect together to make this donation happen. We would like to extend a thank you to donors like you because your help has contributed in making this happen. If you would like to contribute to our work please go to www.aidmatrix.org/japan.