Dice for Disaster

[Chainsaw Aardvark]

I was reading BBC live updates from Japan, and I find a story about a family leaving the country. All they took were a few changes of clothes and a single toy or two for their daughters.

Those that stay find themselves with rolling blackouts, and a pressing need to use batteries in radios or flashlights rather than entertainment devices.

Yet it seems, that there is a need for levity, or at least distraction.

It seems to me, that if you're stuck in a shelter, taking a minimum amount of stuff, and can't have batteries, an RPG is ideal. A few dice, a pen, and perhaps a small form pamphlet (like perhaps?) could just fit in a pocket. Depending on the content/complexity its good for all ages, involves the whole family - or brings in new friends, and tends to be fairly involving.

Now, I know that sending money so governments or charities on the scene can acquire equipment as needed is more convenient than clogging limited cargo space with physical supplies. But would it be possible or advisable to to create a charity/collection for dice and games to entertain disaster victims? Although we are already discussing a charity book - that is a way to raise money for disaster victims, rather than an item to provide too them.

Any thoughts?

[kumakami]

I very much like this idea. I allmost wish it could be combined with the 1km1kt charity book. I think spreading a little joy and hope is important in these distasters.

[Rob Lang]

I like the idea but I think people need cash to satisfy the more urgent parts of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Distribution would also be a nightmare as the displaced people have scattered to the four winds.

[shinobicow]

Wish I could have caught this sooner. I love this community. I love it a lot. I live in Japan, and let me say, things are fucked up and are going to be for a long, long time. The power plant isn't going to be "shut down" from its meltdown for at least another 6 months. It's pretty screwed up. I have a student at my school this year that had to move down from Fukushima and will never be able to return to his home. His sister, a year older, couldn't even handle going back to high school. I kind of agree with the thought that this could be very hard to pull off, but the sentiment really means a lot. Thanks guys!

[Rob Lang]

We love you too, shinobicow. If you're ever in need to have a rant amongst friends, please do use our little shared online home. Mrs and I donated a fistful of pounds to the Japanese Red Cross and our thoughts are still with those effected by the quake/tsunami/nuclear accident.