The tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011 was one of the most destructive and terrifying disasters of modern times. Over 15,000 people died; many more saw their homes swept away. Along Japan’s east coast, towering piles of debris stand near the cement foundations of whole neighbourhoods that are now gone.

Caritas Japan immediately began to distribute food and other emergency supplies to tsunami survivors. Mobilizing a network of over 2000 volunteers, Caritas cleaned up debris, removed mud from houses, and helped small businesspeople restart their work. Caritas Japan also provided special support to children, the elderly, and other vulnerable people. See a photo gallery of their work (Photos by Caritas Japan and Laura Sheahen/Caritas.)