Philippines typhoon relief effort takes a depth and distance approach vs. broad and brief

Photo: A widow being cared for by our native team is happy to receive fresh groceries and clean water as she recovers from Typhoon Haiyan.

Our native team is coordinating local relief efforts in response to one of history’s most powerful storms ever recorded. The storm made a direct hit across Cebu Island, where several of our programs are based, including our main campus. Rather than take a broad approach, we’ve instead opted to care for 21 families and 16 widows severely affected by the storm, so we can more effectively ensure a long-term beneficial use of relief funds.

We will walk with these throughout their recovery until we feel confident they’ve reached a full recovery from the devastating effects of the storm. Thanks to our main campus facility being recently rebuilt after a typhoon destroyed it two years ago, it was up to storm-proof standards and avoided serious damage. The facility also houses our Philippines administrative office and staff quarters. Because the newly-strengthened facility withstood the fierce, record-breaking winds of Haiyan, our team was able to be among the first responders. They turned first to their neighbors and widows most affected by the storm’s rampage.

Our beneficiaries have an advantage over others receiving aid from the big international organizations, who, although they are doing a wonderful and very necessary job, will be leaving in the months ahead. Our team is native to this area and will stay with these who have lost everything, to make sure their recovery leaves them in a better place than where they were before the storm. This is another example of a reason we believe so firmly in empowering local organizations to reach their own–longevity and follow-through, in addition to making the most efficient impact due to local knowledge.

Up until this week, we’ve been primarily focused on making sure that our target beneficiaries are getting the food, shelter and clean water they need. Now we’re moving into phase two–helping clean up damage so we can begin to rebuild their homes. More funds are needed for this phase. Please consider using the link below to contribute toward our Philippines Typhoon Relief Fund. Thank you for your support and prayers.

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