How to help victims of Philippines typhoon
The scale of the devastation in the Philippines as a result of Typhoon Haiyan is immense. The death toll is over 1,700 and rising. Many predict it to reach over 10,000.
Those who have survived have gone days without food or fresh water. Doctors are desperate for medicine to treat the wounded.
Air Force Capt. Antonio Tamayo told the Associated Press: "It's overwhelming. We need more medicine. We cannot give anti-tetanus vaccine shots because we have none."
The longer survivors go without help, the greater chance of disease.
According to the AP: "a reporter drove through the town for around 7 kilometers (4 miles) on Wednesday, seeing more than 40 bodies. He saw no evidence of any organized delivery of food, water or medical supplies, though piles of aid have begun to arrive at the airport. Some people were lining up to get water from a hose, presumably from the city supply."
How can you help?
There are many organization which have set up websites for funds for disaster relief.
- The American Red Cross will take your donations online. The link for its website is here.
- The Philippine Red Cross has mobilized its 100 local outposts to help with relief efforts. Learn more here.
- AmeriCares The relief organization is sending medical aid for 20,000 survivors, including antibiotics, wound care supplies and pain relievers. AmeriCares is also giving funds to local organizations to purchase supplies. Learn more here.
- World Vision The organization is providing food, water and hygiene kits at the evacuation centers. World Vision was also still actively responding to last month's earthquake in Bohol, which luckily was not struck by the eye of the storm. Learn more here.
- ShelterBox ShelterBox provides families with a survival kit that includes a tent and other essential items while they are displaced or homeless. Learn more here.
- Doctors Without Borders The organization is sending 200 tons of medical and relief items, including vaccines, tents and hygiene kits. Learn more here.
- Operation USA The Los Angeles-based nonprofit is sending much-needed water purification supplies to victims and seeking corporate partners to help with delivery. Donate $10 by texting AID to 50555 or give online. Learn more here.
- UNICEF reports an estimated 4 million children were affected by the storm. You can also give via 'UNICEF Responds' by clicking this link. UNICEF will also accept donation via text. Just text RELIEF to 864233 to donate $10.
- Save The Children has set up a Typhoon Haiyan Children's Relief Fund. You can access the information here.
- The Salvation Army has a web page for you to give as well. Here is the link. According to the Salvation Army, you can also text TYPHOON to 80888 to donate $10 and reply YES to confirm your donation.
- CARE is asking for donations which can be made via this online link or by calling 1-800-521-CARE within the U.S.
Unfortunately, there are also thieves ready to steal your money during this horrible human tragedy. Clark Howard has more information on how to donate and not get ripped of by clicking here.
