On March 11, an 8.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern Japan, creating a devastating tsunami that destroyed homes, cities and farms, and wreaked havoc across the country. The natural disasters caused three reactors at a nuclear power station to face partial meltdowns and fires, leaking radiation into the atmosphere. In light of the tragedy and chaos, college students need to step up to help.

As of Monday, the official death toll was more than 8,600 people and projected to rise to nearly 20,000. Thousands of people are missing, while others struggle to find food, fuel and shelter among the wreckage. Elderly and ill people have filled evacuation centers. The World Bank announced Monday that it estimates the disaster could cost Japan $235 billion.

After natural disasters and enormous tragedies, college students, especially at Ithaca College, have been at the forefront of the effort to give and volunteer. In 2005, students raised more than $45,000 for Hurricane Katrina, and last year, students raised more than $1,000 for Haiti through a concert.

Students must rally together to provide support and relief for Japan. Whether it’s by organizing and attending events to raise money, giving blood to the Red Cross or shopping at businesses that are making donations, all efforts will make a difference. It can be as easy as texting REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10.

Students have the tremendous resources and sheer numbers to band together and make a difference. Now more than ever, Japan needs our help.