State Sending Aid To Disaster-Ravaged Japan
CHICAGO (WBBM) -- The state of Illinois is preparing to send aid to Japan to help in the recovery from the March earthquake and tsunami.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's Nancy Harty reports, 2,000 personal radiation detectors will soon be shipped to Japan, after the state bought the devices with federal Homeland Security funds, and still has 3,000 left in Illinois.
LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Nancy Harty reports
Podcast
"We are friends to the people of Japan today, tomorrow and forever, and it is very, very important that we rise to the occasion as a state, and as a people, to help those in need," said Gov. Pat Quinn.
The state is also organizing donations of cash and agricultural products.
George Hisaeda, Chicago consul general of Japan, says the contributions are greatly appreciated amid uncertainty regarding his country's food supply.
"Illinois is a true friend of Japan, and this partnership will help Japan recover and prosper," Hisaeda said.
Peoria-based Caterpillar is transporting the radiation detectors for free.
