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NPO REALs Launches Urgent Crowdfunding for Afghan Earthquake Victims

On September 2, 2025, the certified NPO Reach Alternatives (REALs), based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, initiated a crowdfunding campaign via the platform "READYFOR" to provide immediate assistance to those affected by a devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan. The project, named "Emergency Support: Aid for Earthquake Victims in Afghanistan," aims to gather support until October 31, 2025. In just a short time, many individuals have already shown their compassion and solidarity for the earthquake victims, for which we are profoundly grateful. We continue to seek your support for prompt assistance to isolated individuals in hard-hit areas with restricted access.

Devastating Impact of the Earthquake

In the early hours of September 1, 2025 (Japan time), a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Nangarhar and Kunar provinces in eastern Afghanistan. With a shallow depth of 8km, the impact was catastrophic. As of 5:30 AM on September 3, it was reported that at least 1,400 individuals have lost their lives, over 3,100 have sustained injuries, and around 5,400 homes were damaged. Particularly in the regions surrounding the epicenter—Chauki, Norgul, Wadi, Shomash, and Masood in Kunar province—entire villages have been devastated, with houses made from mud and wood collapsing. Many residents, including children, have perished, while ongoing rescue operations are still underway to free those trapped beneath the rubble.

A Humanitarian Crisis Exacerbated by Natural Disaster

Since the interim Taliban government took control in August 2021, the people of Afghanistan have faced severe restrictions, especially concerning women's education and employment, leading to a near-crisis state. According to the UN, 22.9 million people urgently require humanitarian aid, with 3.5 million children suffering from severe malnutrition. This earthquake has only intensified an already precarious situation.

Since beginning its emergency response in September 2021, REALs has secured safety for over 1,500 individuals who faced threats or were at risk of assassination, facilitated the evacuation of 322 individuals to third countries, and provided food and cash support to 60,000 beneficiaries. Leveraging extensive experience in conflict regions and Afghanistan, REALs is committed to a swift response to the current crisis.

REALs Emergency Support Framework

REALs will deploy its long-standing experience and partnerships with local organizations to provide immediate relief in the following ways:

• - Distribution of emergency supplies, including food, clean water, sanitation products, blankets, and emergency medical supplies.
• - Additional support tailored to the needs of affected areas.

Overview of the Crowdfunding Project

• - Title: Emergency Support: Aid for Earthquake Victims in Afghanistan
• - URL: Emergency Support Campaign
• - Initial Goal: 1 million yen (likely to be achieved by September 3)
• - Secondary Goal: 5 million yen (to be established)
• - Funding Period: September 2, 2025 - October 31, 2025, 11 PM
• - Use of Funds: Costs associated with distributing emergency supplies, salaries for support staff, transportation expenses, administrative costs for managing support efforts, and additional aid based on the needs of affected areas.
• - Fundraising Type: Tax-deductible donations / All-in format

The All-in format allows receiving contributions regardless of whether the funding goal is met.

We urge everyone to join us in saving as many lives as possible and restoring a peaceful life promptly.

About REALs

Reach Alternatives (REALs) is a certified nonprofit organization dedicated to sustaining lives under crisis and fostering peace. Since its inception in 1999, REALs has engaged in meaningful work across 16 countries, focusing on preventing conflicts and fostering coexistence. Currently, the organization operates in Syria, Gaza, Afghanistan, Turkey, South Sudan, and Kenya. By training local conflict resolution agents, establishing systems to prevent disputes, and creating networks among diverse groups, REALs aims to empower people in conflict-affected areas to devise their own solutions, establishing the foundation for sustainable peace.

Official Website: REALs Official Site

For Inquiries:
NPO REALs Public Relations: Nakako Takase
Tel: 03-5579-8395
Email: [email protected]
Address: 203, Midamura Building, 26-1, Kaishodai-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-0802

We also welcome interview requests with Chairperson Rumiko Seya.