For those who would like to help with the earthquake relief effort in Niigata, Japan Post will send emergency relief packages for
free if you send them to the Nagaoka City Hall at:

940-8501
Niigata-Ken, Nagaoka-Shi
Sawai-machi, 2-Chome 1-1
Nagaoka Shiyakusho
Saigai Taisaku Honbu

How and What to send:
- Items other than cash (which must be sent in GENKIN KAKIDOME
special delivery) and which do not require special handling (cool
items or fragile items)
- Relief Items (clothing, blankets, non-perishable food, daily
amenities (diapers, alcohol spray, towels, saran wrap), school
items, newspapers, magazines, etc.) packable in a
small package (KOTSUTSU YUUBIN BUTSU) which doesn't require special
handling.

Pack only new items and one type of item in each box (ie.
a box of drinking water, or a box of food, or a box of daily
amenities) and refrain from sending the following:
- Used underwear or used blankets (even laundered)
- Fresh, perishable foods

Label contents on outside of package
Please mark KYUUENJO YOU (For Emergency Relief)

Other Conditions
- Sender may not request specific distribution of goods (as in
sending to a specific person, village or group.)
- Items may not be sent to gain profit.
- Packages to individuals are not eligible for this service.

Free shipping is only available until 24-Nov. You can also call the P.O.
and have them pick the package up at your doorstep. More information in Japanese here. Thanks to Kathy S. for rounding this up.