HELP JAPAN: The Great Pacific Northwest teams mobilizing

Now that Japan has officially asked USA for help, an array of relief organizations are mobilizing to help the multitudes of victims in Japan, after the quake and tsunami.

World vision in Federal Way, Washington is communicating with Tokyo authorities to ensure the appropriate supplies and relief efforts are in place.

World Vision Senior Director Rachel Wolff, who grew up in Japan said, "Something this large is not something that people would have experienced before, so it's a completely new experience."

Christopher Tompkins, head of the International Medical Assistance Team in Everett and six other doctors, nurses and paramedics are waiting for Japan to notify them whether their assistance will be needed. Although they are certain, at this point, they will be needed-it is unclear in what capacity.

Washington Secretary of State Sam Reed cautions individuals and groups to make sure a charity is reputable before donating. Be sure to check office's website to be certain a charity is registered with the Secretary of State.

Trusted groups:

Salvation Army: Text the word "JAPAN" or "QUAKE" to 80888 to make a $10 donation to the Salvation Army. This will appear on your phone bill.

American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org

World Vision: http://www.worldvision.org/

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