[Torrential Rain in July 2020] PBV launches relief efforts in Kuma-mura, Kumamoto Prefecture
Heavy rains throughout almost the entire month of July caused profound damage to communities in Kumamoto prefecture. In Kuma-mura, one of the worst hit areas, many residents are still residing in an evacuation shelter.
In order to fulfill the needs for emergency response, the prefectural government of Kumamoto and local government of Kuma-mura requested YMCA Kumamoto and Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) for operational support at the evacuation shelter. After several meetings and discussions with the local authorities and YMCA Kumamoto, PBV decided to dispatch staff members to respond to the request.
Since April this year, PBV has prepared our staff for emergency response during the COVID-19 pandemic. The dispatched team members have been trained to prevent the spread of the virus and implement operational support at evacuation centers. All of the dispatched members have taken PCR tests and been proved negative prior to their dispatch on 16th August.
Our PBV team and YMCA Kumamoto have been supporting the residents at the Former Taragi High School evacuation center to respect their 
right to be supported as much as possible. We are making the best effort to provide safe and secure life to the residents during their evacuation.
PBV’s disaster relief activities are supported by individual and organizational contributions. Please help us to help those affected. PBV offers various donation methods, including credit card payment, bank transfer, and corporate donation platforms Benevity and Alaya.
Please visit our donation page for more information.