Ways to help Japan's earthquake relief efforts

TOKYO - In the wake of the disastrous earthquake and tsunami that has pummeled Japan, relief teams from all across the world are stepping in to provide relief to the tsunami victims.

The Red Cross, the U.S. Navy, faith based agencies and countless organizations are contributing to search and rescue missions as well as food and shelter efforts, but there are plenty of ways for individuals to get involved and lend a helping hand.

Mashable.com has compiled a list of seven legitimate ways that people can donate and help these relief efforts.

Text a donation
When Haiti’s earthquake struck in early 2010, the Red Cross was able to raise over $20 million by people donating through text, and they are using the same strategy a second time around.

To donate to the American Red Cross for “Japan Earthquake Relief”, text ‘REDCROSS’ to 90999. Each text puts $10 towards the relief efforts.

Buy virtual crops to provide real help
Buying virtual digital crops can help children affected by the earthquake. Zynga, the world’s largest social gaming company, has joined forces with Save the Children’s Japan Earthquake Tsunami Emergency Fund to get its users to donate money through the purchase of virtual goods in CityVille, FrontierVille, FarmVille and its other games.

All of the money from the sweet potatoes purchases in CityVille, radishes in FarmVille or kobe cows in FrontierVille will go towards Save the Children’s efforts to provide relief in the Pacific.

“Like” The following Facebook Page
Perhaps one of the easiest ways to donate is to hit the “Like" button for the “Dog Bless You” Facebook page.
Explore.org is donating $1 for every like that they get, up to $100,000.

For the complete list of ways to help, click here .