A volunteer car loan program in Japan, born from the March 2011 tsunami disaster, will mark its 15th anniversary this year. The initiative began after the tsunami swept away tens of thousands of cars in the city of Ishinomaki, leaving many survivors who moved into temporary housing struggling to reach hospitals, stores and other essential services.
Operated by local volunteers, the program allows residents to borrow cars free of charge or at low cost to maintain their daily lives. Over the past 15 years, the project has helped thousands of families overcome transportation difficulties, especially elderly and disabled people in resettlement areas. Volunteers not only lend cars but also maintain, repair and provide technical support to residents.
To mark the 15th anniversary, organizers plan to hold appreciation events, expand the support network and call for more volunteers to sustain operations as many areas continue to recover from the disaster.
