SMU joins citywide efforts to help sister city in Japan

The Winona-Misato Friendship Association —whose members include current and past student ambassadors, their families and staff or community members, who have traveled to Misato, Japan — are helping to organize a city/area wide benefit for the town of Misato in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.

Fifty homes were completely destroyed in the 8.9 earthquake. Three times that number were damaged. Many businesses and roads are in need of repair. Thankfully, no fatalities occurred, but more than 30 residents needed medical attention.

The area continues to experience aftershocks and communication because of power outages is inconsistent. The Misato residents are in need of funds to buy essential supplies: food, water and clothing.

SMU along with Winona State and other area businesses and institutions have been requested to support the city-wide initiative.

At SMU, “Misato Mondays” will begin next week. Collection jars will be available Mondays, April 11, 18 and May 2 at high visibility areas around campus. Additionally, collection jars will be available at Gaslight this weekend, Sunday Mass and the track and field meet April 30.

Special Misato wristbands will soon be available as well.

A week-long benefit effort is being planned May 1 through May 7 throughout Winona. One day during Misato Week, Saint Mary’s will showcase various cultural aspects of Japan through special public events. Details are being finalized. When the week is completed, a check from the Winona Community Foundation will be given to the City of Winona to send directly to officials in Misato.

Current pictures from Misato and pictures from past trips are available at at http://misatorelief.hbci.com.

For more information about Saint Mary’s participation, contact Chandu Valluri at Ext. 1466 or cvalluri@smumn.edu.

For more information on the benefit week, contact Bead Kerr at bker.1995@gmail.com, Joe Lepley at joseph.lepley@winona.k12.mn.us or Glenn Petersen at gpetersen@winona.edu.