Direct Relief, a leading medical relief organization, today announced that the Wasserman Foundation has donated $100,000 to its Japan Relief and Recovery Fund, established in partnership with the Japanese American Citizens League. The donation will help thousands of displaced Japanese citizens receive medical care, food, kerosene, sleeping bags, warm clothes and hygiene supplies in 20 care centers. 100% of this donation and all others given to the fund will be dedicated exclusively to relief and recovery efforts in Japan.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Japan during this challenging time,” said Casey Wasserman, president and chief executive officer of the Los Angeles–based Wasserman Foundation, his family’s private foundation. “We recognize the recovery process will be lengthy and we encourage Americans nationwide to join the Wasserman Foundation by making a donation of any amount to Direct Relief International.”

In the weeks since the disaster, Direct Relief has mobilized emergency funds to provide help for thousands of in 20 facilities throughout the earthquake and tsunami affected areas, as well as those displaced from the evacuation zone near the damaged nuclear reactor.

The fund has been set up with special attention being paid to the needs of persons with disabilities and elderly persons who face extraordinary challenges in the immediate crisis and the recovery period ahead. A total of $3.5 million in contributions has been received and/or pledged to the Japan Relief and Recovery Fund.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Wasserman Foundation for keeping the focus on the citizens of Japan who will continue to need medical assistance and life-saving supplies for months to come,” said Thomas Tighe, President and CEO of Direct Relief.

“As experienced first responders, we know that our first priority is to support the immediate health needs of people by working with local health partners best situated to assess, respond, and prepare for the long-term recovery that will be needed. Thanks to the generosity of the Wasserman Foundation and so many others, we will be there for the people of Japan – long after the headlines fade.”