I know that others have posted on donating to the earthquake-tsunami victims..but in researching the subject further (my wife's family..as well as friends live in Japan)..I found a more effective way to get more "bang for your buck".
By donating directly to the Japan Red Cross (rather than through the U.S. branch)..most of the money will go directly to the victims.
The URL to donate directly is:
http://www.ifrc.org/en/get-involved/donate/donation-japan/ Gassho..Arrigato Gozaimas..
(hands together bowing..thank you so much)