On April 25, a massive 7.8 earthquake rocked Nepal, leaving much of historic Kathmandu in rubble and vulnerable to continuing aftershocks—and Portland businesses are already stepping in to raise relief funds for the survivors. Loyly Sauna, the popular Scandinavian-style sauna retreat that recently opened a second location off of Northeast Fremont, is gearing up for a long week of fundraising efforts.

"The survivors of the worst earthquake in Nepal in 80 years have little refuge," Loyly wrote in an email on April 27 to fans of the Finnish spa. "This earthquake struck in a densely populated area where many people live in already-precarious conditions. We're making it easy to help."

All week long, 20% of sales of Loyly's signature Renewer massage and sauna package will be donated to MercyCore's emergency response efforts in Nepal. The $99 package, which can be booked by calling 503-236-6850 (Southeast), 503-914-4303 (Northeast), or visiting the spa's website, includes a 45 minute massage, up to 2 hours in the sauna and steam room facility, sparkling water and cleansing tea, and single-use rejuvenating face mask and body salts.

According to MercyCorps, "initial reports indicate that thousands of people were killed and thousands more injured in the worst quake to strike the region in 80 years." The Portland-based international development and aid organization has had a presence in Nepal since 2006, helping to improve food security, economic development, resource management, and education, and the MercyCorps team is one of the largest aid groups on the ground in Nepal. "Immediately after the earthquake, our 90 dedicated team members began working on an emergency response to meet survivor's like urgent needs like food, water, and shelter. We will help people survive now and be there to help the resilient people of Nepal as they rebuild their lives."

To lend a hand directly, visit MercyCorps website for donation information as well as tips for other local businesses to pitch in.