with love ...to Japan

Japanese Quilt Initiative

The quilters of South Africa have received a plea for assistance from Naomi Ichikawa, the editor of Patchwork Quilt Tsushin Magazine.  She has asked if we could send “comfort quilts” to those that have lost everything in Japan.

Our plea to each of you – and each of your friends, is that you would consider making a quilt to comfort those that have been left with literally nothing after the devastating earthquakes and tsunami in Japan.  We are looking for quilts of any size – from small to large (not wall-hangings…), new or old (in good condition).  It would be great if you label includes a South African flag.

We have been given an opportunity to help individuals unconditionally.  If you would like to take this opportunity, it has been made very easy for us through the generosity of Yamaha.   

Yamaha has very generously offered to help us, nationally and simplify the process by setting up drop off points in all the major centres.  Unfortunately, these are not available at the time of going to press, but we will get them to you as soon as possible.  Yamaha will then ensure, at their expense, that the quilts are delivered to Naomi in Tokyo.  All we have to do is make them and drop them off.

We do need the assistance of guilds, shops and/or individuals who would like to assist as more local drop off points and take on the responsibility of delivering to the Yamaha drop-off points.  If you are able to help, please contact Twig on  twigg@telkomsa.net She will compile a list of these for KZN and ensure the information is circulated.

Your quilts are to be tightly wrapped in plastic, with a label on the bag as follows:

RELIEF GOODS FOR THE AFFECTED PEOPLE OF TOHOKU KANTO EARTHQUAKE

Attention: Naomi Ichikawa

TOHOKU KANTO EARTHQUAKE RELIEF
PATCHWORK TSUSHIN CO. LTD
2-21-2 YUSHIMA
BUNKYO-KU
TOKYO
JAPAN
113-0034

Please note, the value must be noted for customs, but limit to between 50 and 100 dollars to avoid import duty.  Please do not mention that they are quilts.

The deadline for all the quilts to be at the Yamaha drop off points is 20 May 2011.

Please spread the news – talk to as many people you can about this initiative.  Quilts are physical manifestations of love.  Let’s respond to the plea and warm someone who is trying to deal with this awful situation.