If you are interested in donating money to the relief efforts in Japan, you may make a check out to Aldersgate UMC, and put “Japan relief” in the memo section of your check.  Mail the check to us at 4243 Manuela Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306.  We will send you a receipt within 7-10 days. We will route your donation through UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee On Relief. UMCOR is the not-for-profit global humanitarian aid organization of the United Methodist Church.  Its mission, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, is to alleviate human suffering—whether caused by war, conflict or natural disaster, with open hearts and minds to all people. UMCOR responds to natural or civil disasters that are interruptions of such magnitude that they overwhelm a community's ability to recover on its own.  It recognizes that disasters cause disruptions that can last for years and often create permanent changes in people's lives.  UMCOR works within a community to address the long-term effects of a disaster and assist people in rebuilding and adjusting to change. Every dollar you donated will go towards those in need in Japan.  You can also go to http://secure.gbgm-umc.org/donations/umcor/donate.cfm?code=3021317 to learn more and donate directly on the web.  Thank you! Japan Relief Effort