Like many children his age, eleven year old Renz is well aware of the recent disasters that hit Japan on March 11. Seeing live footage of the devastation on TV, hearing talks of the gravity of the events at home and in his church, Renz determined to help out.

^{Renz proudly poses by the mall donation box where he took part in helping the survivors of Japan's recent disaster.}

Passing by the mall with his family, the Grade 5 student discovered that specific opportunity. Through the “Emergency Response Fund” (“Hand in Hand for Japan” in other malls) booth conveniently located by his favorite hangout, Renz proudly placed his five pesos donation in the acrylic box.
He shares, “I could’ve bought biscuits in school with that money, but I gave because they need it more.”

Thousands of others just like Renz have responded to the need by donating through these mall booths. World Vision in partnership with National Geographic and SM Malls has set up these avenues of giving for the general public in 41 SM Mall locations nationwide from March 24-31.

Also helping out by volunteering to be a staff for the booth, fourteen year old Mervine accounts, “It’s a really challenging experience. I’ve realized that out of the many fortunate people we’ve encountered, very few are still willing to give. It’s a sad reality, but it makes me want to help out more.”

With the rising number of deaths, missing, and over 330,000 evacuees displaced by the tsunami and earthquake in Japan, survivors especially the thousands of children affected are in dire need of your help. World Vision in Japan is currently on the ground assisting in evacuation centers, distributing relief goods, and setting up Child Friendly Spaces (CFS). With children being most affected during times of crisis, World Vision seeks to do provide relief and rehabilitation with the children in mind.   

You too can help these survivors of the earthquake and tsunami, through your donation by clicking this link or visiting an SM mall booth near you. You can also give of your time through volunteering to help out at the booth. Find out more by clicking this link.

SM Mall Booth Locations: SM North EDSA, Megamall, Podium, Mall of Asia, Baguio, Rosales, Tarlac, Pampanga, Clark, Fairview, Marilao, Valenzuela, Baliuag-Bulacan, Sta. Mesa, Manila, San Lazaro, Pasig (Hypermart/Supercenter), Novaliches, Taytay, Marikina, Southmall, Sucat, Bicutan, Las Pinas (Supercenter), Bacoor, Molino, Dasmarinas, Rosario, Sta. Rosa, Muntinlupa (Supercenter), San Pablo, Calamber, Lucena, Batangas, Lipa, Naga, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, and Cagayan De Oro.