Wyandotte officials are feeling a personal connection to Japan, and are gearing up to hold a fundraising drive to support the earthquake and tsunami relief efforts.

Since 1963, Wyandotte and Komaki, Japan have been sister cities. Their ties have included a student exchange program and official visits back and forth. "Komaki was affected by the aftershocks rippling from the 8.9 magnitude earthquake," employee Sarah Schwochow wrote in a letter to city officials. "Not to mention, there are many citizens of our sister city who have lost loved ones in this tragedy, and the city of Komaki as a whole is mourning."

Midori Takeuchi, deputy consul general of Japan in Detroit, said Komaki's inland location likely prevented any flooding or other tsunami concerns. The death toll is believed to be more than 10,000, with thousands more still missing.

"Since Friday, millions have been without food, water and electricity," Schwochow said. "Wyandotte has always been a very giving city ... and in this time of crisis, we need to continue to extend our generosity to those in need." Details are still being worked out, but officials hope to begin a fundraising drive with the American Red Cross next week. Money collected would be earmarked for Japan and other Pacific Island countries affected by the quake and tsunami.