Miyo Tanaka moved to Thunder Bay from Japan in 2009 and when she saw the devastation caused by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami on March 11, she immediately needed to do something to help.
So she and her husband Allan Marwood contacted their daughter Cecilia’s principal at Agnew H. Johnston Public School about what they could do and she came up with the idea of selling ice cream as a fundraiser.
To give the students some background and perspective on the tragedy, Marwood and Tanaka gave presentations to each class about the impact of the earthquake, tsunami and radiation are having in Japan.
"I think the kids are very aware of what’s happening over there," said Marwood. "We’ve had a lot of great responses from the kids, a lot of great questions."
While most students knew about what happened, many didn’t realize thousands were without food and shelter.
Principal Joy Petrick said after talking to the Tanaka-Marwood family, she realize the importance of showing the students that this disaster directly affects people in their school. She wanted the couple to do the presentations, so when asked to support relief efforts by buying ice cream, the kids would understand what the money was being used for.
"I think it’s been really beneficial for the students because it’s touching their hearts; they’re seeing this is what’s happened and it’s really close and personal to this family," Petrick said. "They’re realizing it’s not just images on TV; it’s not a movie."
Marwood said for his family, they felt there was no choice but to help.
"Things like that don’t generally happen in our country, so we are more fortunate that we actually can help," he said. "I do feel that if you can, you should do something."
Tanaka said she hopes their presentations send the message that everybody should help each other when they can.
"This is a problem not only in Japan but also in the world, so people must help each other," she said.
The school will be selling ice cream for $1 starting next Tuesday and ending Friday. Petrick said they hope to raise $500 for the Red Cross’ Japanese relief fund and any donations are welcome.
