Typhoon Relief

By now you have probably seen and heard many of the pictures, videos, news clips and broadcasts from the Philippines regarding the devastation brought on by typhoon "Ondoy" (International code word "Ketsana") in the National Capital region (Metro Manila). Above all the struggles that our brothers and sisters face on a daily basis because of economic hardship, natural calamities like this storm and the accompanying floods in Metro Manila and its outskirts can surely push one towards desperation.

But we have hope.

Immediately after the floods stopped rising and even while thousands of homeless Filipinos cleaned up mud-soaked streets - ordinary heroes sprang into action. The military and government agencies did their job, but thousands upon thousands of ordinary citizens also stepped in to immediately start restoring the city and helping their fellow citizens. The web was also filled with information on how those of us who were not there physically can beceome part of the work of rebuilding.

We have partner organizations that we can count on to do a good job of collecting, organizing and distributing goods, funds, even prayers to the countless victims. Here are my recommendations:

The Philippine National Red Cross is at the forefront of this battle.  Click on the link to get information on how you can help.

The Gawad Kalinga organization is always there when disaster strikes. In this situation, however, in spite of being victims of the calamity, GK Villagers have opened up all villages to assist in providing temporary shelter and logistical support for those who have lost everything. Several GK Villages were also hard hit by the floods - specifically those in the Marikina area. GK is taking donations online at the GK1World site as part of their "Walang Iwanan" (Leave No One Behind) campaign - the fund is specifically set up for typhoon Ondoy relief.

AncopUSA is Gawad Kalinga's organization in the U.S. and they are already set up to take in international transactions.   Become a part of GK's 1MB vision (1 Million "Bayanis" or Heroes).

World Vision is an organization that we've always trusted, specially when it comes to getting relief for children. They also have sprang into action, seeking $2M to immediately start relief efforts even as Ondoy makes its way to Vietnam. They will be there, too, assisting victims in that country.

Our very own Youth Group, WITH,  is organizing their efforts towards this cause.  Get more information from their website on how you can help.

You may also send checks written out to NetWork Christian Ministries' Typhoon Relief to our mailing address at:

27620 26th Ave S

Federal Way, Wa  98003

Regardless of which organization you go through to send help, I would ask that you please give generously. The comfort and security we enjoy in this part of the world in spite of the occassional natural disasters we experience is nothing compared to the calamities experienced by those in the third world. Make a sacrifice this week - give up a few cups of lattes, skip that nice dress you were planning to buy, eat at home this week instead of going to a fancy restaurant...do something to make your giving count both for the victims and for yourself.

God bless you all and keep our countrymen in your prayers.