Delivering Supplies and Smiles After Philippines Earthquake
The magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck the Philippines on September 30 has devastated communities in and around Cebu Island. As a result of the earthquake and continued aftershocks, 75 people have lost their lives, and more than 84,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.
More than two weeks have passed since the initial disaster, and a number of aid organizations are providing relief in the heavily damaged city of Bogo. Fortunately, much of the chaos that was seen in the first several days of the response has largely subsided, and systems for relief and recovery are being implemented. Still, there are many small communities outside of Bogo that were not receiving adequate support, so Peace Winds has stepped up to help fill this gap.
Peace Winds’ disaster response team, ARROWS, dispatched to Cebu Island on October 1, where they established a network to work with local partners, assess the needs and damage, and begin distributing relief supplies on the ground.
The team found that aid had not reached many residents of small mountain and fishing villages. There were almost no lights here, leaving residents in pitch darkness after night falls. Many families were living outdoors in makeshift tents due to the fear of aftershocks, but the tents were not sturdy, and some were made from old, torn sheets.
In response, the Peace Winds team returned to their base in Cebu City where they gathered solar lights and durable tarpaulins to deliver to those who were still living outdoors in the rural towns. After the supplies were delivered, Peace Winds staff and families worked together to set up larger, sturdier shelters with walls made from the tarpaulins as well as roofs. Survivors report that they have been able to sleep more comfortably with better protection from the wind and rain.
At the same time, the stress and trauma of living through such a disaster along with the hardships of prolonged evacuation are taking a toll on many survivors. Going forward, they will not only need material support, but also support for their emotional and psychosocial well-being.
Peace Winds teams are working quickly both to deliver supplies to those in need while also talking with families about their experiences and fostering personal connections that bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Your donations help ensure that we can continue this work.
To donate to the Philippines earthquake response, please choose “The Philippines Response” in the donation dropdown menu, or click here to learn more about donating to Peace Winds. We appreciate your continued support.
