To some, this might be “common” news, but to others it seems to be a surprise, and good effort, from Apple. Kevin Rose has published a set of emails that he received, and they seem to shed some light on how Apple has helped its employees in Japan during the aftermath of the Tohoku earthquake. The account is that of an Apple Store manager somewhere in Tokyo who has been overseeing his store through the disaster.

Just after the earthquake, hundreds of people heaving around Apple Stores in Japan to use the internet connections. Apparently there’s a lack of free Wi-Fi in Japan, making the Apple Stores natural gathering places. Using Skype and FaceTime, victims were able to contact family members and even regroup at the stores.

According to the letters, Apple retail stores in Japan have become a sort of safe haven for lots of Apple employees (both retail and corporate) and their families since the quake hit. Apple Japan has been footing the bill for food, water, supplies and even hotel rooms for those in need, stating that their “safety is most important.” As public transportation systems have been mostly down, Apple has offered to pay for any and all expenses that may occur should an employee attempt to travel back home through alternate means.

At least Apple’s using its huge money reservoir for good use in times like this.

SOURCE via Kevin’s Blog