Over five thousand earthquake survivors in Japan have been directly helped by one Chinese woman. Zhao Xingming has visited the worst affected areas close to a dozen times to prepare free meals for the refugees.

Zhao Xingming has been living in Japan for 22 years. After the March 11th earthquake, she and her husband made the decision to help those in need.

Fukushima was her first stop.

Affectionately called "Mama," she has become known for her free meals of pork congee and dumplings.

Chinese volunteer Zhao Xingming said: "When they call me Mama, it is heart-warming. Each time I hear they call Mama, they are just like members of my family."

Since starting her voluntary work, she has received many letters of thanks.

Although lives are getting back on track in the earthquake zones, Zhao says she will continue to offer her help.