When Super Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines in early November, thousands of people were killed, and many more injured, displaced and left to rebuild their lives.
Since launching the Philippines Typhoon appeal not long after the tragedy, UnitingWorld has received over $30,000 from the generous support of individuals, businesses and congregations within the Uniting Church in Australia.
UnitingWorld, the international relief and development arm of the Uniting Church in Australia, are forwarding these funds with immediate effect to the ACT Alliance, of which they are a member, to distribute to agencies on the ground directly involved in relief efforts.
All funds will be used to provide food and water, tents, generators, essential non-food items, blankets, clothing and hygiene kits.
It is currently estimated that over 470,000 people have been displaced from their homes. There is an acute lack of clean water and food for people in nine provinces, where up to nine million people are believed to be affected. Children in particular are a vulnerable group.
UnitingWorld would like to express deep gratitude to everyone who has generously donated this this appeal so far. The ACT Alliance is calling for USD 15 million to secure the health and safely of millions of people over the coming weeks and months.
Any further donations to UnitingWorld’s appeal will go directly towards this program.
Rev Dr Ji Zhang, UnitingWorld’s manager of church partnership, Asia, has prepared a liturgy for use in worship services in response to the disaster. This, along with prayers resources for storm survivors are available on the UnitingWorld website. To donate or download these resources, visit http://www.unitingworld.org.au/philippines-typhoon-appeal/ or call UnitingWorld on 1800 998 122.
An information flyer is also available for free downloading, which can be handed out or shared in church. To download this flyer visit http://unitingchurchwa.org.au/blog/2013/11/phillipines-typhoon-emergency-relief/.