FedEx teams up with JEN to deliver volunteer programme in Japan

FedEx Express, the parcel delivery branch of US shipping giant FedEx Corp, has recently launched a new volunteering campaign in the Toshuko region of Japan, in partnership with JEN, an NGO working in the area.

FedEx and JEN have been working together in the region for three years, assisting the recovery since an earthquake struck Toshuko in March 2011. So far, the two organisations have assisted those affected by the quake with relief supplies and transport and have assisted the recovery of the fishing industry by activities such as the cleaning of fishing equipment and painting of fishing boats. The new Volunteer programme, called "Let's Go to Hama" aims to encourage and facilitate collaborate between FedEx employees and local residents.

The new two day programme took place on 8th and 9th of March and saw FedEx employees and 11 local residents take part in activities such as aqua farming and collecting seaweed and oysters in the cultivation area of Sudachi-hama.

Keiko Kiyama, the director of JEN said, "I am very thankful for FedEx support of the Let’s Go to Hama! program which aims to revitalize the Tohoku region currently in the process of healing. I hope through exchange between local residents and volunteers, this program greatly contributes to the recovery of the Tohoku region.”

Regional Vice President of FedEx Express, North Pacific commented, “We are proud that FedEx has continued to provide support for the Tohoku region. Now that three years have passed, the type of assistance needed is different. That’s why we have launched our new ‘Let’s Go to Hama!’ program. I expect that volunteers will also come away with a valuable experience by working and spending time with the local residents.”