Who says that acts of solidarity and support have to be dry and somber? Oakland articulates creative giving on a regular basis. On April 2, Bakesale for Japan will offer the chance to munch on delicious foods, fold 1,000 paper cranes, and practice oneness with our world family.

Samin Nosrat (co-founder of Oakland’s Pop-Up General Store, an innovative group of cooks who meet up once a month to feed and connect directly with their customers) has helped organize this massive effort to get funds to earthquake and tsunami victims via Peace Winds Japan. The bake sale will happen at multiple locations in the Bay Area:

Oakland – Pizzaiolo (5008 Telegraph Ave.)
San Francisco (Mission) – Bi-Rite Market (3639 18th St.)
San Francisco (Fillmore) – SPQR (1911 Fillmore St.)
Berkeley – Gioia Pizzeria (1586 Hopkins St.)
Marin – Marin Country Mart (2257 Larkspur Landing Circle)

Facts about Japan’s recent disaster:
On March 11, the 9.0 Tohoku undersea earthquake occurred off the East coast of Japan.  The quake resulted in 77 foot tsunami waves that hit the mainland just afterward. Explosions in nuclear reactors made matters worse. To date, over 10,000 people are reported dead, 17,000 are missing and almost a quarter million are being housed in shelters.

Over 16 other cities in the US will also be taking part in the Bakesale for Japan, and the list is growing daily. If you are not able to make it on that day, consider donating to Peace Winds Japan.

According to legend, if you fold a thousand paper cranes, you are granted one wish. On April 2, make way to the Bakesale for Japan nearest you. Wiggle your origami fingers, put your wish for recovery and healing into the crane’s wings, breathe deep, and cast your wish. Then take a bite of something sweet, and savor it, because this exact moment right now - it’s the only thing we know for sure.