MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Station residents looking to lend a helping hand in the disaster relief effort for the people of Niigata Prefecture can now do so until Nov. 6.
A collection box has been set up at the GSA Mart, located east of the IronWorks Gym at Building 1007, to collect new and unused clothing, blankets, preserved foods and other daily necessities.
“If we can give one item that makes it to the Prefecture and helps one person through what must be one of the most difficult times in their lives, we’ve done what we hoped to accomplish,” said Capt. Stewart Upton, Station public affairs officer. “But with that said, we are going to work hard to see if we can help more.”
As of Tuesday morning, 24 items have been donated.
“The single biggest item we need is new blankets,” said Navy Lt. Brett Sandman, assistant logistics officer. “It’s getting cold up there and they could use some warm winter blankets.”
Other items that Station residents can donate are: Canned food, baby food, bottled drinking water, paper cups and plates, tooth brushes, soap, shampoo, towels, sanitary items, tissues, diapers and batteries.
U.S. Forces Japan have been quick to help in the relief effort by collecting goods and helping to transport them to the areas in need. MCAS Iwakuni has joined in with efforts at Yokota and Misawa Air bases.