Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi traveled to Kumamoto Prefecture on Monday, where she spoke to victims of July 28’s magnitude 7.1 earthquake, which has killed at least 38 people, and leaving over 9,200 staying in 210 evacuation shelters.

The prime minister viewed the disaster-hit area from a Self-Defense Forces helicopter before visiting an evacuation shelter in the town of Hikawa, where she spoke with victims. She then met with local leaders, promising central government support for reconstruction efforts.

Takaichi’s trip to Kumamoto comes nearly a week after the quake struck the region, making the visit after first responders wrapped up search and rescue operations in order to avoid placing extra logistical and security burdens on local residents and officials.