Knoxville Y-Teens Raise Money for Disaster in Japan

Rebecca Weir and SJ Kim from Farragut High School

KNOXVILLE- The YWCA's Y-Teens are holding a coin collection to raise money for victims who may be at a health risk as a result of Japan's recent horrible natural disasters. Y-Teens are also collecting and donating blankets for victims.

The YWCA in Japan reached out to the World YWCA for help and support in this hard time. The YWCA Japan reported that there has been no loss of life in the metropolitan area; however, communication to other YWCAs around the country has not been working. Blankets, food, and water are most urgently needed.

"As time goes by, things are becoming clearer, but also worse" Tomoko Negishi, International Relations Officer of the YWCA of Japan, said. "Some Sendai YWCA members live by the tsunami area and we are keeping hope alive, but we worry about them so much."

The YWCA Knoxville Y-Teens program is designed to empower young women by providing them with opportunities to explore their leadership potential. Y-Teen's opportunities include leadership training, community service, mentoring programs, social events and workshops.

The Knoxville Y-Teens are placing collection jars at certain locations around town, including the YWCA downtown, located on 420 West Clinch Avenue.

For more information on the YWCA's support for the victims in Japan, please visit www.ywca.or.jp/earthquakeenglish.html.

Published April 12, 2011