How the Church Is Supporting Those Affected by the Kumamoto Earthquake

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At approximately 4:27 p.m. on July 28, 2026, a powerful earthquake measuring magnitude 7.1 struck central Kumamoto Prefecture, registering a maximum seismic intensity of 7 on Japan’s seismic scale. The disaster, known as the 2026 Kumamoto earthquake, has left nearly 4,000 people living in evacuation shelters, while more than 28,000 homes have been destroyed, severely damaged, or partially damaged.

Under the direction of the Asia North Area Presidency, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has worked through leaders and members of the Kumamoto Japan Stake to ensure the safety of Church members and full-time missionaries. The Church has also provided visits, relief supplies and other assistance tailored to the needs of affected members and their families.

In the Yatsushiro area, which experienced some of the most significant damage, Church leaders and members, including Kumamoto Japan Stake President Yuki Tashiro and Yatsushiro Branch President Wataru Shibata, visited affected members and their families. Relief supplies, including drinking water, sports drinks, nonperishable food, and hygiene items, were delivered to the Yatsushiro Branch meetinghouse for distribution.

The Kumamoto Japan Stake continues to coordinate relief efforts with Asia North Area Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. Through ongoing communication with Yatsushiro City Hall and volunteer centers throughout the region, Church leaders have worked to identify local community needs and provide support. Beverages and food items have been donated to volunteer centers serving the communities of Uki, Hikawa, and Yatsushiro. On August 15, members and missionaries from the Kumamoto Stake are scheduled to participate in community service efforts through the Yatsushiro Volunteer Center.

The Church is also supporting meal distribution efforts organized by Second Harvest Japan, a certified nonprofit organization that provides food assistance to those in need. In addition, Church representatives have participated in the “Hinokuni Conference,” a coordination meeting that brings together disaster relief organizations and government officials across Kumamoto Prefecture to share the latest information on conditions and relief efforts in affected areas.

Since the earthquake, many Church members have expressed a desire to help. However, members are encouraged not to contact local leaders directly or send relief supplies to affected areas on their own. Those wishing to assist are invited to contribute to the Church’s Humanitarian Aid Fund, which helps support relief and recovery efforts where they are needed most.