West Seattle businesses host fundraiser for Japan | Business

A group of West Seattle businesses have organized a community fundraiser - West Seattle for Japan - for this Sunday, March 27, to benefit victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami.

Dave Montoure, co-owner of the West 5 restaurant, came up with the concept. Montoure lived in the Iwate Prefecture of Japan for several years and felt that he had to do something to support the Japanese communities that had become his extended family. The Iwate Prefecture is one of the hardest hit areas in Japan.

"I've spent a lot of time traveling in area so it was shocking to see the devestation that went on there," Montoure said.

A portion of proceeds from sales on Sunday at the following businesses will be donated to Peace Winds Japan and KnK International:

• West 5
• Feedback Lounge
• Shadowland
• Easy Street Records & Café
• The Mission
• Porterhouse
• Beveridge Place Pub
• Skylark Café & Pub
• Bin 41
• The Bridge
• Mashiko
• Spring Hill
• Cherry Consignment
• Coffee to a Tea with Sugar
• Fresh Bistro
• Meander’s Kitchen
• Jak’s Grill
• West Seattle Produce
• Wing Dome

All donations will be matched by a private donor.

Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization), dedicated to the support of people in distress, threatened by conflict, poverty, or other turmoil. With its headquarters in Japan, PWJ has been active in various parts of the world. Now, with the advent of the earthquake and tsunami, PWJ is focusing efforts in Japan.

KnK International is devoted to supporting disadvantaged youth in Asia and encouraging international friendships. In the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami, KnK is focused on the support of people and children in the devastated area of Japan.

The two beneficiaries were selected to address three specific focus areas:

• First response to the disaster providing support to address immediate needs of food, medical attention and shelter;
• Assisting individuals (with a focus on children) to cope with the lingering effects of post-disaster trauma;
• Future disaster preparedness in rebuilding

West Seattle businesses who would like to participate are warmly welcomed and can contact Dave Montoure at dave@westfive.com.