Typhoon
Haiyan, known in the Philippines as Typhoon Yolanda, is being called the strongest
recorded tropical cyclone to make landfall, with wind speeds up to 195 miles
per hour.
The
cyclone caused devastation in the Philippines, particularly on Samar Island and
Leyte, where the governor estimated that at least 10,000 people may have died
in the city of Tacloban alone.
Unknown
numbers of survivors do not have basic necessities such as food, water and
medicines and remain inaccessible for relief operations, as roads, airports and
bridges were destroyed or covered in wreckage.
For
those looking to contribute as individuals, below is a short list of reputable organizations
already contributing to the relief efforts.
- The American Red Cross has launched a family tracing service. If you are unable to reach a family member in the Philippines, you can contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to initiate a tracing case.
- The Philippine Red Cross has mobilized teams on the ground to help with rescue and relief operations. Click the link to learn more.
- UNICEF is taking donations to help provide children with shelter, clean water, nutrition and vaccines.
- World Food Programme (WFP) has allocated $2 million for the disaster response and is seeking further donations at www.wfpusa.org or by texting the word AID to 27722 to instantly donate $10.
- Google has also launched a person finder.
If you wish to offer individual financial assistance directly to Girl Scouts of the Philippines, please send to:
- Account Name: Girl Scouts of the Philippines
- Address: 901 Padre Faura Street, Ermita 1000, Manila, Philippines
- Bank Name: Banco de Oro
- Address: Mabini, Padre Faura Branch
- Account Number: 104490280222
- Swift Code: BNORPHMM