The Alaska Fishing Industry Relief Mission (AFIRM) is back in operation, offering assistance to fishing communities affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
Originally formed to assist Gulf of Mexico fishing communities following hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, AFIRM has revamped its website, www.akjapanhelp.org, to reflect the current tragedy. Donations can be made by check and credit card and via Paypal.
AFIRM is offering to assist and coordinate the efforts being made by fishermen, processors and transportation and financial companies from Alaska and the U.S. West Coast to provide aid to fishing communities in Japan.
“Japan is Alaska’s largest trading partner, with the majority consisting of Alaska seafood. In one way or another, everyone involved in any aspect of the seafood industry in Alaska and the West Coast has strong ties and relationships with Japan. Our hearts and prayers are with the Japanese people as they seek to recover from this terrible strategy, and we will look for guidance from them on best to use the resources we raise to assist their fishing communities,” said Larry Cotter, AFIRM chair.
AFIRM is also providing aid to Brookings, Crescent City, Fort Bragg and other Oregon and California fishing communities affected by the tsunami.
