It hit me suddenly, while reading about refugees housed in Japanes school gymnasiums, that this is the time of year we attended a school-wide program for Janet's school, held in their gym. We were healthy, happy, dry, and well-clothed—with personal hand- and foot-warmers to boot—and were nonetheless deeply chilled before the program ended. And that was further south than the troubled area of Japan. That also made me realize that when you hear reports that make the refugees' need for fuel seem nearly as important as their need for water, it's not so they can tool around town in their Toyotas. Fuel for transport is vital, of course, but kerosene heaters are a common source of heat for Japanese homes. I can't imagine what Janet's apartment would have been like at this time of year without kerosene—or rather, I can imagine it all too well.
Here's an update from the team Stephan's friend is working with in Japan. It will give you a good idea of their plans for the work.
