CRWRC Responds to Needs Of Typhoon Survivors in The Philippines

CRWRC Newsroom | September 30, 2009

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“We experienced non-stop rain since Friday afternoon,” said CRWRC-Philippines staff member Lem Rosselon of Typhoon Ketsana that ravaged the Philippines over the weekend, submerging hundreds of homes, and leaving thousands homeless. “The amount of rainfall in the first six hours alone was equivalent to one month’s average rainfall. It caused widespread damage, landslides, and flash floods.”

This typhoon caused the worst flooding in the Philippines in 40 years and has devastated many areas where CRWRC and its partners work. Reports indicate that 240 people were killed and many more are still missing.  In addition, experts estimate that 1.8 million people who were affected or displaced by the storm are now at risk of contracting typhoid or other water borne illness as they wait for the putrid, polluted flood waters to recede.

CRWRC is responding.  Country consultant, Joe Lamigo, was in Los Banos when the storm struck.  He quickly joined forces with staff from the Christian Reformed Church of the Philippines to visit affected sites and assess needs.  He reported that the most urgent needs right now are for blankets, used clothes, drinking water, and food. 

As staff work to meet these needs, they are also encouraging North Americans to pray. “Please pray for the thousands of Filipino families who’ve been severely affected,” said Rosselon.  “They are in danger of the cold, hunger, drowning and sickness.  Pray for rescue teams and emergency relief efforts to reach those most in need.  And pray for CRWRC and churches as we respond to the needs around us.”

Watch a short presentation from the Philippines about this response.

Please support CRWRC’s response to Typhoon Ketsana.  Donate online:  US | Canada

Checks, marked “Philippines/Asia Floods 2009” can also be sent to: