Video: Northwest and National Groups Ask for Donations to Help Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami Victims

Pacific Northwest nonprofit groups - as well as national ones - that help when international emergencies hit are raising money to assist the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.

Portland-based Mercy Corps is accepting online donations on behalf of its partner, Peace Winds. Mercy Corps has ties to Sammamish. In Federal Way, World Vision is preparing to send staff members and supplies to Japan, the organization reported Saturday.

One goal, the group said, is to help children. It also is accepting contributions to help those in Japan.

Medical Teams International, which has a Redmond office, said that it has been in touch with its partners in Japan and is willing to help.

The American Red Cross posted a video update about its efforts in Japan. The group is working with the Japanese Red Cross and is asking for donations online or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or texting 90999 to donate $10 through your cell phone.

EMPACT Northwest, an emergency medical response group based in Kingston, is sending members of its organization to help in Japan, KING-5 reported. The group also is raising money to support its efforts.

In Seattle's International District, Japanese American and other groups have come together to raise money through SeattleJapanRelief, the Northwest Asian Weekly reported on its website.

The groups encourage people to donate to Peace Winds America or the American Red Cross.

The YMCA of Greater Seattle noted on its website that it is raising money to help the Japan YMCA and especially the Kobe YMCA, an international partner.

Sammamish Patch will update this story to list any Sammamish organization or company or any Pacific Northwest organization or company that is raising money to help people in Japan.