Shortly before Christmas, tropical storm "Rai" passed over the Philippines with wind speeds of up to 260 kilometres per hour and caused severe devastation - a total of seven provinces were affected. According to official figures, the tropical storm, which is also known as "Odette" in the Philippines, has killed 375 people, 500 have been injured and more than 56 are still missing. Many are fleeing or have been evacuated.
Contrary to forecasts, "Rai" strengthened from a tropical storm to a super typhoon within hours of making landfall, bringing torrential rains, violent winds, landslides and storm surges. There was extensive damage to infrastructure: farmland, houses, roads, telephone networks were damaged or destroyed.
The United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), a member church of the UEM, is now supporting the relief and reconstruction work. Basic foodstuffs, clean water, medicines and hygiene kits are urgently needed for the survivors of the disaster.
The UEM Commuion is currently preparing further emergency financial aid and is asking for donations for the people in the Philippines.
Donations to: United Evangelical Mission
IBAN DE 45 3506 0190 0009 0909 08, keyword: Typhoon Philippines or donate online here.
spenden@vemission.org
0202-89004-195